Gravity & HatTrick
HatTrick believes the best sprint start is a 30‑degree angle, 5 pounds of force on the toes, and no left shoe tied before the right. Gravity, what does the physics say about that?
A 30‑degree angle is a bit steep for a crouched sprint start; most sprinters do about 15‑20 degrees so the foot can push more horizontally. Five pounds of force on the toes is almost nothing – you need on the order of 50‑100 pounds of push to get good acceleration. The order in which you tie your shoes doesn’t change the physics, but make sure both are snug before you go. In short, angle lower, force higher, and keep the shoes tied tight.
HatTrick says every angle on that start line is a battle. He remembers his spreadsheet: the 15‑20 degree range is the sweet spot for most rivals, but he keeps his left shoe untied first—superstition says it keeps the opponent guessing. He’ll keep pushing until the data shifts, but right now, tight shoes, low angle, and a killer push.
Superstition won’t change the force the ground can give you, so the untied shoe is just a psychological tactic. With a 15‑20‑degree angle and a strong push, you’re in the physics‑friendly zone. Keep the shoes tight, focus on the mechanics, and let the data, not the superstition, guide your practice.
HatTrick nods and says, “Right, physics is the real champ, but the untied shoe? That’s the edge people don’t see. He’ll tighten the laces, crank up the push, and still keep the superstition in the locker. The data’s good, but the game is about mind games too.”
If the laces are tight and the angle and force are right, the untied shoe won’t change the outcome. It might help him feel more focused, but it won’t give a real competitive edge. Stick to the data, keep the shoes snug, and let the mind game be a mental bonus, not a physics trick.
HatTrick nods, “Got it, the physics are the real game‑changer. He’ll keep the laces tight, angle sharp, push hard, and still toss that untied shoe into the mix for the mental edge people miss.”