Daniel Back: How Sprint Training Builds Athleticism and Why Adults Should Never Stop Sprinting

Speed coach Daniel Back (@2xathlete) joins Judd Lienhard to break down the truth about sprinting, speed training, and why adults should never stop sprinting. Sprinting isn’t just for track athletes — it’s the ultimate athletic expression and one of the best ways to stay strong, explosive, and youthful well into your 30s, 40s, and beyond.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why linear sprinting builds athleticism for every sport
• Force production vs. force application — and why “punching the ground” slows athletes down
• The role of submaximal sprinting, play, and variety in long-term speed development
• How adults can safely reintroduce sprinting — even after years away
• Stride length vs. stride frequency, posture, dorsiflexion, and mechanics explained
• Sprint drills, surfaces, and how speed work fits with lifting and recovery

Big takeaway: Sprinting isn’t optional — it’s the foundation of athleticism at any age.

Key Timestamps:
00:00:00 – Why sprinting is the ultimate athletic expression
00:04:57 – The case for adults: why you should never stop sprinting
00:09:06 – Building speed through submaximal work & variety
00:16:43 – Common sprinting technique mistakes explained
00:25:12 – Vertical vs. horizontal force: what really makes you faster
00:39:14 – Stride length vs. stride frequency debate
01:08:41 – Can you sprint and lift on the same day?

👉 Train Judd's MASS Method program — exclusively available in his fitness app: https://www.juddlienhard.com

About Judd:
Former Army Ranger, college linebacker, and performance coach with 15+ years of experience, Judd Lienhard helps athletes and adults unlock elite levels of movement, strength, and speed. His motto: Always Be An Athlete.

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The Judd Lienhard Podcast delivers unfiltered conversations with elite athletes, military leaders, and top coaches, exploring performance, mindset, and resilience. From NFL vets to Special Forces operators, each episode is packed with real-world lessons on training, leadership, and pushing limits.

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