The Garage Strength Podcast Why Every Person Should Sprint (Regardless of Age) w/ Olympic Sprint Coach Stu McMillan
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Sep 12, 2025 
Dane Miller chats with Stuart McMillan, an Olympic Sprint Coach renowned for his expertise in sprint biomechanics. They discuss why sprinting benefits everyone, regardless of age. McMillan breaks down the phases of sprinting, emphasizing acceleration mechanics and the differences in force application between genders. He debunks common sprinting myths, highlights the critical role of foot mechanics, and introduces the importance of adapting training techniques for individual athletes. The conversation also touches on injury prevention and the role of stiffness in sprinting performance.
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Sprint As One Coordinated Process
- Treat the 100m as a coordinated whole rather than rigid phases.
- Focus on climbing with each step and getting taller, lighter, and bouncier progressively.
Projection Angle Predicts Acceleration Length
- Elite sprinters project at low angles (~30°) and increase inclination ~3–4° per step until upright.
- Weaker or younger athletes project higher and rise to vertical much faster, shortening acceleration.
Sex Differences Shrinking — Individuality Wins
- Female elites historically had higher step frequency, but mechanics now converge between sexes.
- Individual traits, not sex, largely determine early force application and shapes.