How can an athlete improve her running speed?

Improving running speed through the practice of running at top speed with added resistance is an effective method. This technique, commonly known as resistance training or overspeed training, helps athletes enhance their explosive power and speed. When an athlete runs with added resistance—whether it's from tools like sleds, parachutes, or weighted vests—they have to exert more force to overcome that resistance.

As a result, their muscles adapt to handle greater loads, which can translate to increased speed and strength when running without resistance. The training conditions the athlete's neuromuscular system, improving coordination and enhancing the efficiency of muscle fibers. This method not only builds strength but also enhances the athlete's overall running mechanics, making them more efficient and faster during competition.

In contrast, options that involve decreasing stride length or increasing stride length with a lower stride rate would not effectively contribute to speed improvement. Maintaining reaction time is important for quick starts but does not directly increase an athlete’s running speed.