Are you ready to leave your competition in the dust?
Elevate your speed and agility training with the game-changing world of starting blocks.
In this article, we'll explore the five best starting blocks on the market, all designed to give you the best shot at an explosive start so you can shave time off of your personal bests.
The Best Starting Blocks For The Money
The Highest Quality Starting Blocks
The Best Starting Blocks Under $200
The 5 Best Starting Blocks For Track & Field Sprinters
After through research, and based on my experience as a track & field coach and competitive sprinter, these are the 5 best starting blocks in 2023.
Gill Athletics G2 Starting Blocks: A High-Quality Choice for Sprinters
- Price: $266 on SimpliFaster, $199 on Amazon
- Customer Rating: 4.4/5 based on 46 reviews
- Dimensions: 33.5 x 8.1 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 6.21 Kilograms
- Material: Steel
- Warranty: 1 Year (For Manufacturing Defects)
What I Like About Them:
- The Gill G2 blocks offer the best combination of quality and value out of all blocks I've tested.
What Could Be Improved:
- At this price point, it is hard to complain about anything on the Gill G2 starting block.
Who Are They Best For:
- Coaches or athletes who want the best starting block under $300.
- Meet directors who want high-quality blocks at less than half the price of the Gill Fusion F10 blocks.
More Information About The Gill Athletics G2 Starting Blocks
The Gill Athletics G2 Starting Blocks stand out among blocks for sprinters, as they offer exceptional quality and performance features at a reasonable price.
The G2 Starting Blocks boast extra tall 8" aluminum pedals that provide a solid footing for explosive starts and fast sprinting. The pedals are adjustable to four different angles (45°, 55°, 65°, and 75°), ensuring a customized fit for individual sprinters. The polished steel rail adds to the blocks' sturdiness, with removable spikes to ensure they stay in place on different surfaces, including tracks and indoor turf.
The blocks include 1/2" needle spikes for synthetic tracks and are rated to meet NFHS and NCAA specifications.
Lightweight and easy to set up, the G2 Starting Block set is suitable for sprinting events such as the 100m, 200m, and 400m races. They are recommended for athletes aged six years and above and are suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
Users rave about the quality and performance of the G2 Starting Blocks. One customer states, "These sprinter blocks are very underrated, and the pictures do not justify the exceptional quality. Great buy." Another satisfied user, a masters track athlete, mentions the blocks' stability on different surfaces and recommends them for practice sessions.
Parents of athletes also find these starting blocks impressive, with one sharing that their state-ranked hurdler son considers the G2 Starting Blocks on par with more expensive sets used at state-level competitions. Although the pads may be slightly challenging to put into place, users generally agree that the blocks are an excellent investment for improving sprinting performance.
With a customer rating of 4.4/5 based on dozens of reviews, these blocks are well-received by athletes and coaches who value durability, functionality, and versatility.
Overall, the Gill Athletics G2 Starting Blocks are a top choice for sprinters seeking high-quality, customizable starting blocks that deliver reliable performance and durability.
With many positive reviews, it is clear that these starting blocks have earned their place among the best in the market.
Check the latest prices on the Gill Athletics G2 Starting Blocks here and here.
Gill Fusion F10 Starting Blocks: The Highest Quality Starting Block In 2023
- Price: $726.00
- Customer Rating: 5/5 based on 34 reviews.
- Dimensions: 36 x 10 x 6 inches
- Weight: 5 lbs
- Material: Aluminum
- Warranty: None stated; contact the manufacturer.
What I Like About Them:
- The Gill F10 blocks are the highest-quality blocks on the market.
What Could Be Improved:
- Adjusting these blocks takes some getting used to, and they are costly.
Who Are They Best For:
- Coaches or athletes who want premium starting blocks.
- Meet directors who are hosting high-level track meets which require false-start detection.
- Athletes who never want their blocks to slip again.
More Information About The Gill Fusion F10 Starting Blocks
The Gill Fusion F10 Starting Blocks have earned an outstanding reputation among athletes and coaches, boasting a perfect 5/5 customer rating based on 34 reviews. Priced at $726, these high-quality starting blocks are made of durable aluminum, measuring 36 x 10 x 6 inches and weighing 5 lbs.
One of the key features of the Fusion F10 Starting Blocks is the exclusive 8 "x10" pedal design, which offers full heel support for improved starts.
According to Gill Athletics, this design facilitates a more powerful and efficient acceleration pattern, giving athletes the pedal space and stability needed to accelerate explosively in their sprints.
One unique feature I always appreciated with the F10 blocks is the angled spikes in the base of the pedals, which prevent your blocks from slipping. Every sprinter knows the let-down of their blocks slipping, and the Fusion F10 starting blocks angled spike design prevents this from happening.
The Fusion F10 Starting Blocks have a built-in handle and are lightweight, making them easy to transport. The adjustable pedals can be set to 30, 40, 50, and 60 degrees, allowing every athlete to find a block pedal angle that suits their ability level.
The Fusion F10 blocks also include a False Start Bracket, allowing these blocks to be used at high-level competitions which employ false-start detection technology.
The Fusion F10 Starting Blocks meet NFHS, NCAA, and World Athletics specifications and are World Athletics certified. For meet directors running high-level meets with elite athletes, the Gill Fusion F10 blocks meet the specifications needed for high-profile track events.
User reviews of the Fusion F10 Starting Block are all very positive, with high-level coaches and good athletes rating them highly.
One review from an assistant coach from North Carolina A&T Track, a very successful track program, highlights the blocks' success in major track and field competitions.
Another review from a coach at Ohio State University emphasized the broad foot pedal base and various pedal angle options, which allow athletes to apply maximum force during starts.
In summary, the Gill Fusion F10 Starting Blocks offer athletes a reliable and high-performance solution to improve their starts on the track. With features such as full heel support, integrated pedal markings, adjustable angles, and anti-slip angled spikes, these starting blocks are a worthy investment for sprinters who want the absolute best pair of starting blocks for their practice and competition needs.
Check the latest price on the Gill Fusion F10 Starting Blocks here.
Port A Pit Premier Starting Blocks: Good Value For The Money
- Price: $171.50
- Customer Rating: 4.4/5 based on 46 reviews
- Dimensions: 33.5 x 8.1 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 13.6 lbs
- Material: Steel
- Warranty: 1 Year (For Manufacturing Defects)
What I Like About Them:
- The carry handle makes them easy to carry.
What Could Be Improved:
- These blocks are pretty heavy, with a shipping weight of over 13lb.
Who Are They Best For:
- Athletes or coaches who want quality blocks for less than $200.
More Information About The Port A Pit Premier Starting Blocks
The Port A Pit Premier Starting Blocks are designed for quality and durability so sprint athletes achieve an explosive start and improve their race performance.
Built with high-quality materials, the Premier Starting Blocks feature cast aluminum construction, offering durability and longevity. The 4-angle wide adjustable panels allow for a customized fit, enabling athletes to find their optimal starting position. The polished aluminum chrome rail also adds to the blocks' sturdiness, ensuring stability on various surfaces.
One notable feature of the Premier Starting Blocks is the convenient carry handle located in the center of the rail, making transport and setup a breeze. The blocks measure 12.5" W x 33" L, providing a solid base for sprinters. They also come with a spike wrench and spikes suitable for all types of surfaces, enhancing their versatility.
By training with the Port A Pit Premier Starting Blocks, athletes can improve their reaction time and develop a consistent pre-race routine.
Users appreciate the quality materials and design of the Premier Starting Blocks, with one reviewer stating, "Outstanding quality materials and design. Easy to assemble, adjust, and use."
However, one user noted that the footpads are heavy, so individuals who want a lightweight pair of blocks may be better suited with a different choice.
Despite this, the overall consensus among users is positive, with many satisfied with their purchase. With an impressive customer rating of 4.6/5 based on ten reviews, these blocks are sufficient for the needs of sprinters and coaches alike.
The Port A Pit Premier Starting Blocks provide athletes with the stable footing they need to achieve an explosive start and improve their sprinting performance.
With high-quality materials, adjustable features, and a convenient carry handle, these starting blocks are a valuable addition to any sprinter's training regimen.
Check the latest price on the Port A Pit Premier Starting Blocks here.
Stackhouse Athletic Championship TCHAMP Starting Blocks
- Price: $140.00
- Customer Rating: 4.6/5 based on 34 reviews.
- Dimensions: 28 x 7 x 6 inches
- Weight: 5 lbs
- Material: Aluminum
- Warranty: None stated; contact the manufacturer.
What I Like About Them:
- Affordable, durable, and have adjustable pedals.
What Could Be Improved:
- At 28" long, you have fewer adjustment options than other blocks with a more extended center rail.
Who Are They Best For:
- Athletes who are training on their own.
- Coaches who need blocks but operate on a tight budget.
Information About The TCHAMP Starting Blocks
The Stackhouse Athletic Championship TCHAMP Starting Block is a good set of blocks for athletes or coaches on a budget.
With a 4.6/5 customer rating based on 34 reviews, these starting blocks give good value for the money while being durable enough for heavy usage.
These blocks feature 4" wide, 4-position adjustable pedals, giving the athlete enough space and pedal angle options to find a comfortable position.
The lightweight aluminum construction ensures that the blocks are easy to transport and set up while still strong enough for powerful athletes.
Designed to fit both high school and college competition standards, the TCHAMP Starting Block comes with anchor spikes and all-weather spikes, making them suitable for use on various track surfaces. This adaptability ensures that athletes can train and compete effectively, regardless of the conditions.
Users have praised the TCHAMP Starting Blocks for their ease of assembly, stability on the track, and solid foot pedals.
One reviewer commented, "These blocks can be assembled in a few minutes. They are solid and have spikes that fasten them to the track nicely."
Anothr user appreciated the blocks' durability and performance, stating, "This item arrived as advertised and was easy to assemble. They are very durable and work perfectly! All high school sprinters should consider investing in these blocks."
For anyone looking for starting blocks under $200, the Stackhouse Athletic Championship TCHAMP Starting Blocks are a reliable, adjustable, and durable option for sprinters seeking to improve their performance on the track.
With positive reviews and a high customer rating, these starting blocks are an excellent choice for youth, high school, and college athletes.
Check the latest price on the TCHAMP Starting Blocks here.
Ignite BLOX Portable Track Starting Blocks: Revolutionizing Speed and Agility Training
- Customer Rating: 5/5 based on 4 reviews.
- Dimensions: 10 x 7 x 1.5 inches
- Weight: 0.75 lbs
- Material: Plastic
- Warranty: None stated; contact the manufacturer.
- Price: $59.99
What I Like About Them:
- Very affordable, compact, and easy to transport.
What Could Be Improved:
- These blocks are not great for high-level athletes, as they are not adjustable nor as planted into the track as traditional starting blocks.
Who Are They Best For:
- Youth athletes or anybody new to sprinting.
- Anybody who cannot bring normal starting blocks with them to the track.
Ignite BLOX Portable Track Starting Blocks is a unique product that allows you to emulate block starts without lugging around a heavy, expensive set of metal starting blocks.
The BLOX are small plastic pieces with spikes on the underside, giving you a portable method to practice your starts.
With dimensions of 10 x 7 x 1.5 inches and a weight of just 0.75 lbs, these lightweight, durable, and portable starting blocks are made of long-lasting injection-molded plastic.
Ignite BLOX assist athletes in mastering their 2-point, 3-point, and 4-point start stances, refining their starting technique, and improving their sprint times without having to spend $100+ or carrying heavy starting blocks with them to the track.
One of the key features of Ignite BLOX is its compact and ultra-portable design. They are easy to carry in a training bag or duffle, saving athletes time and effort compared to traditional starting blocks.
The BLOX are composed of durable, injection-molded plastic and come complete with actual track spikes that can be inserted at a precise angle in the bottom surface to prevent slipping or unwanted movement. The top surface features a permanently molded textured knurling finish to ensure stability and give traction to the athlete during use.
Customers have praised the durability and convenience of Ignite BLOX, with one high school football player noting their ability to withstand harsh training conditions. Another reviewer appreciated the lightweight and easy-to-use design, while a youth track coach commends Ignite BLOX for improving their sprint team's times during the season.
The Ignite BLOX have garnered a perfect 5/5 customer rating, as they are the most portable and convenient product available for working your block starts.
For youth athletes or anyone looking for the most portable way to train your starts, the Ignite BLOX Portable Track Starting Blocks offer a groundbreaking solution for athletes.
With their lightweight, durable, and portable design, athletes can now focus on refining their technique and improving their performance without the hassle of traditional starting blocks.
Check the latest price on the Ignite BLOX here.
Get More Out Of Your Starting Blocks
Once you've got your set of blocks, these tools can help your acceleration training be more effective:
- Freelap e-Starter - Develops reaction time and syncs with the Freelap timing gates.
- Gill Athletics Sprint Start Sled - Allows you to perform resisted sprints from the blocks to work on rate of force development.
- Hyperwear Elite Weighted Vest - Adds inertial loading to improve your start, and make you a more powerful athlete.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blocks
When were starting blocks first introduced in track and field?
Starting blocks were first introduced in the 1948 Olympics in London, UK.
What percent of Olympic and world class sprinters use starting blocks?
Because of the current track & field rules, 100% of world-class sprinters and Olympic sprinters use starting blocks.
Do starting blocks make a difference in the 100m dash?
Yes, starting blocks make a huge difference in the 100m dash, especially if you know how to use them properly. Starting blocks allow you to apply large amounts of horizontal force in the start, so you can accelerate more quickly and start your sprint at a higher velocity than you could achieve without blocks. A good starting block also allows you to stay low when you sprint.
Which leg should i put in front on the starting blocks in track?
Your strongest leg should be the one you put in front in the starting blocks. For example, if you feel stronger jumping off of your left leg, that would be the front long in your starting block.
Is the 1-2-3 rule the most appropriate way to start from the starting blocks?
Generally speaking, the 1-2-3 rule works well for finding comfortable block settings. This involves setting the center rail of the blocks at one foot from the starting line, your front pedal two feet from the line, and your back block three feet from the line. I use this method with beginner sprinters, adjusting the block setup once they have gained some experience with using blocks.