Overview
Athletics measures fundamental human movement through speed, endurance, jumping and throwing. It includes track events, field events, road running, race walking and combined events.
History
Athletic contests have ancient roots, with running and field events central to the ancient Olympic tradition. Modern athletics developed through nineteenth-century codification and became a core Olympic sport.
Disciplines
100 Metres
Short sprint over 100 metres testing acceleration and maximum speed.
200 Metres
Sprint combining acceleration, maximum velocity and efficient running over a bend and straight.
400 Metres
One-lap track race requiring speed endurance and tactical pacing.
Long Jump
Field event in which athletes sprint and jump for maximum horizontal distance.
High Jump
Field event in which athletes clear a horizontal bar without dislodging it.