V.2.1. Speed manifestations

• Simple reaction time is when there is only one stimulus presented which always requires one response as soon as possible;
• Choice or complex reaction time is when there are more stimuli at the same time and we have to choose between one of several responses depending on which stimulus is presented. The more stimuli appear at the same time the greater the reaction time is;
• Reaction speed time is when movement starts as a response to an external command;
• Locomotor movement is the act of moving from one place to another with a self-sustained speed (i.e. cyclic movements such as running, cycling, rowing etc.).
• Acceleration and deceleration capabilities are when a person or athlete reaches his maximum speed and in terms of deceleration he can break this speed in the shortest possible time. The development of these capabilities has great importance in sports.
• Situation and decision making speed offer an individual an opportunity to implement actions in multiple choice and tactical situations. The thinking, organization and right choice making are initiated by the movement program and demonstrated in better implementation. The length of time holds importance.

The speed is made up of a combination of different skills:

• Reaction speed;
• Movement speed;
• Acceleration ability requiring quick run-up power;
• Frequency speed;

The important phase for reaction and frequency speed is between the ages of 7-12. The movement speed and the quick power execution speed can hardly improve after the age of 12-13.

In the development of movement speed two intervals can be distinguished. The first phase until the age of 10 is characterized by intense improvement. Between 7-8 years in both girls and boys however, stagnation is observed. The second phase ends with puberty for the girls. At this stage their performance exceeds the adult level then begins to decline. The boys’ performance is even in this period but improves modestly compared to the previous phase.  The most intense stage in the change of performance falls at the end of the early childhood and the beginning of young childhood.

Results of the speed training abilities:

• Motion technique development;
• Anticipation development;
• Ensure motivation and concentration abilities;
• High- intensity training stimulates the increase in testosterone levels and also contributes to the improvement of speed;
• An increase in muscle mass contributes to the improvement of speed;
• Muscle contraction speed increases;
• The nerve-muscle co-operation develops;