Letter from the Editor, March 2020

Hello Subscribers, and welcome to the March 2020 edition of The Hurdle Magazine. It would be safe to call this issue the “Coronavirus Issue,” as the pandemic that has swept the entire globe has directly affected the world of track and field.

This month’s issue features two articles on the coronavirus, one by myself, and one by freelance writer Melinda Burris Willms. The one I wrote focuses on the emotional and communal impact of the virus, while Willms’ article focuses more on how to train smartly in order to avoid putting oneself (and others) in danger during this unprecedented time in human history.

Freelance writer Savannah Cress’ article for this month focuses on the career of Dalilah Muhammad, whose 2019 season put her on a pedestal as arguably the best to ever do it in the event. Cress examines Muhammad’s journey from the streets of New York City to international stardom.

This month’s workout, “400H Race Model Workout,” is geared toward preparing the long hurdler to establish a rhythmic continuity while also ratcheting up the speed after building a base in the previous months.

The third article that I wrote is a technique-based article, entitled “Elbow Room.” In this article, I examine the problem of having arms that cross the body and swing widely, and give advice on how to correct this flaw.

In the fourth article that I wrote, “Dorsi-flexion: The Key to Everything,” I explain what dorsi-flexion is and how it is an essential foundational element to hurdling efficiently. I also discuss methods to teach it and the hurdling flaws that a lack of it can cause.

I hope everyone is doing well and staying safe in these difficult times. If your season has been cancelled by the virus, trust me, I feel for you. Keep your head up and don’t give up on your dreams.

Steve McGill