Gold Metal Physics, with Edwin Moses (Re-release) | Startalk Radio

Intro

In this episode of Startalk Radio, Dr. Edwin Moses, the Olympic 400-meter hurdler, joins the conversation to discuss the application of physics in his pursuit of gold medals. They also delve into the upcoming Olympics 2021 and the challenges faced by athletes. Get ready to be inspired by the incredible journey of Edwin Moses and his unique approach to the sport.

Main Takeaways

Physics in Sports

• Dr. Edwin Moses, the greatest 400-meter hurdler of all time, applied the laws of physics to win gold.
• He studied physics and engineering at Morehouse and used his knowledge to make strategic adjustments in his running style.
• Moses’s unique approach allowed him to run closer to the inner line of the track, saving him 12-15 feet in every race.
• Using his left leg to go over the hurdles first enabled him to maintain a shorter distance from the line.
• His adjustments were a combination of technique and strategy, giving him an edge without unfair advantage.

The Impact of Track Surfaces

• Tartan tracks, made of rubberized material, have more elasticity and affect technique and takeoff.
• Custom-made shoes with enhanced grip and elasticity played a significant role in improving technique and takeoff.
• Shorter spikes are used for rubberized tracks to optimize performance.
• Sender tracks, made of ground-up sand and senders, have different properties compared to tartan tracks.

The Mindset and Holistic Approach

• Ballet classes helped Moses improve flexibility and stretching for hurdling.
• Moses adopted a holistic approach to enhance his performance, including focusing on diet and mental training.
• He won 122 consecutive races and broke the world record in the 1976 Olympics.
• Maintaining speed was painful and required constant preparation.
• Moses transformed his mindset, embracing a Galilean transformation, and outtrained his competitors.

Anti-Doping Advocacy

• Moses became an advocate against doping in sports after witnessing the dominance of East Block women in the 1976 Olympics.
• He received death threats for speaking out against doping.
• Athletes use increasingly sophisticated methods to avoid getting caught for doping.
• New approaches to deter doping include statistical analysis and non-analytical positives.
• Marijuana is not tested for due to legal issues and clogging up the legal system.

Summary

Applying Physics to Hurdling Success

Dr. Edwin Moses, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in the 400-meter hurdles, utilized his knowledge of physics and engineering to revolutionize the sport. By making strategic adjustments to his running style, such as running closer to the inner line of the track and leading with his left leg over the hurdles, Moses gained a competitive edge. These adjustments were a combination of technique and strategy, allowing him to save valuable distance in every race without unfair advantage.

The Influence of Track Surfaces and Equipment

The type of track surface, such as tartan tracks or sender tracks, significantly impacts an athlete’s technique and takeoff. Moses benefited from the elasticity of tartan tracks and used custom-made shoes with enhanced grip and elasticity to optimize his performance. Understanding the properties of different track surfaces and utilizing appropriate equipment became crucial in achieving success in hurdling.

A Holistic Approach to Performance

Moses’s journey to becoming the greatest 400-meter hurdler involved more than just physical training. He embraced a holistic approach, incorporating ballet classes for flexibility, focusing on diet, and mental training. This mindset, combined with his dedication to outtraining his competitors, allowed him to maintain a winning streak of 122 consecutive races and break world records.

Becoming an Anti-Doping Advocate

After witnessing the dominance of East Block women in the 1976 Olympics, Moses became an advocate against doping in sports. He faced backlash and even received death threats for speaking out against doping. The fight against doping continues, with athletes using increasingly sophisticated methods to avoid detection. New approaches, such as statistical analysis and non-analytical positives, aim to deter doping and ensure fair competition.

Conclusion

Dr. Edwin Moses’s journey as an Olympic gold medalist in the 400-meter hurdles is a testament to the power of applying scientific principles to sports. By utilizing physics, making strategic adjustments, and adopting a holistic approach, Moses achieved unparalleled success. His advocacy against doping further emphasizes the importance of fair competition and integrity in sports. As we look forward to the upcoming Olympics, let us remember the impact of science and the dedication required to reach the pinnacle of athletic achievement.