Which of the following is NOT one of the stated goals of acceleration?

• A. Synchronize explosive arm & leg through 'piston like' leg action
• B. Optimize the direction of force to maximize horizontal velocity
• C. Increase vertical jump height
• D. Improve stride length

Answer: (C)

Acceleration is about getting speed quickly in the direction you’re moving. The goals focus on how you apply force and how your limbs work together to push you forward. Synchronizing explosive arm and leg action helps create a smooth, powerful transfer of energy so nothing wasted goes into vertical lift or twisting; it keeps the motion coordinated and forward-directed. Directing force in the forward direction maximizes horizontal acceleration, rather than lifting you up or pushing you off to the side. Improving stride length contributes to covering more ground each step, aiding faster speed as you accelerate. Increasing vertical jump height, while it reflects leg explosiveness, targets upward movement and isn’t about pushing off to move forward along the ground, so it isn’t listed among the goals of acceleration.