Race walking rules

Was your child disqualified in the race walk event this week?

Here are a few helpful tips on how to avoid a DQ.

There are only two rules in race walking:

  • First rule: There must always be one foot on the ground. Athletes can be DQ’d for running in a walk race.
  • Second rule: The leading leg must be straight from the moment of contact with the ground until directly under the body. This is only the leading leg not both legs, so when the leading leg makes contact with the ground at the front, it must be straight, with no bent knee. Even if you’re walking slowly and cautiously, you may not have the leading leg straight. This is the most common reason for disqualifications.

The best way to have good technique is to point your front toes up and keep your back straight, do not lean forward.

Also, you need three reports to be disqualified. If you only get two reports, you’re ok. If you get cautioned by a walk judge during the race, you can try to adjust your style during the race to avoid a DQ.

Here are two examples of 8 year olds (click photo to view full size). The photo on the left shows an example of straight back and leading toes up – great technique. The photo on the right shows body leaning forward, leading toes down and slightly bent knee for the leading leg. Unfortunately, the bent leading leg on the right is likely to receive some reports and if you get 3, a DQ is the end result.

Knox Little Athletics Centre provides race walk coaching every Tuesday and Thursday night at the track between 6:15-7:00pm. Come down and get some tips from the Knox walk coach, Fran who will teach you correct technique.

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