Designing rhythm, speed and adaptability through task manipulation

Hurdles present a unique coaching challenge.

The heights are fixed.
The distances are fixed.
The rhythm is unforgiving.

Unlike open-skill sports, athletes cannot modify the environment during competition. And yet, performance still depends on problem-solving under speed.

This is where Constraints-Led Training becomes so interesting.

Instead of prescribing exact technical positions, this approach manipulates the training environment so that effective solutions emerge naturally.

What Is Constraints-Led Training?

Constraints-Led Training is rooted in ecological dynamics and non-linear pedagogy.

The core idea is simple:

Athletes do not learn in isolation.
They adapt to constraints.

Constraints generally fall into three categories:

• Performer constraints – strength, height, mobility, perception, motivation

• Environmental constraints – wind, surface, noise, temperature

• Task constraints – spacing, hurd

  ...

From data to track performance.

We’re excited to welcome Andrea Uberti and Daniel Buttari — two key figures in the Italian technical sector — to Speed Festival 2025.

With years of combined experience coaching at the highest levels, both have been instrumental in developing Italy’s national approach to sprint hurdles.

Their work bridges research, technology, and on-track application, ensuring that every data point collected translates into measurable performance gains.

Exclusive Lecture + On-Track Session: Data Analysis of Hurdling Competitions

At this year’s Speed Festival, Uberti and Buttari will present:

“Data Analysis of Hurdling Competitions: The Experience of the Italian Technical Sector”

This unique double-format session will combine:

• A theoretical lecture revealing how competition analysis — from split times to hurdle clearance efficiency — shapes smarter, more effective training strategies.

• A practical track session with drills and progressions inspired direc...