What do acceleration sprints involve?

Acceleration sprints are characterized by a gradual increase in exercise intensity, allowing athletes to build up speed progressively. This method commonly involves short bursts of sprinting where the athlete starts at a lower speed and accelerates to their maximum speed over a specified distance. The inclusion of rest periods is crucial as it allows for recovery between sprints, helping to improve performance and reduce the risk of injury by preventing fatigue. This systematic approach to increasing intensity and including rest periods aids in developing speed and sprinting performance effectively.

The other options do not accurately depict the nature of acceleration sprints. Constant high-speed running without rest does not allow for the strategic buildup of speed. Short bursts of maximum speed without planning neglect the structured approach that acceleration sprints require. Finally, using heavy weights for resistance pertains to strength training rather than the technique and focus needed in sprinting exercises.