by Steve Sievert

This feature is a continuation of the "Beginners Beat" column in the November 2001 issue of Runner Triathlete News. To get the full scoop on developing a devastating kick, pick up a copy of the November issue of Runner Triathlete News.

In November's Beginners Beat, we focused on how to hone the skill of kicking, or finishing a race with a sprint. The goal of the kick is more than to make you look good at the finish line. It's about overtaking a competitor for a higher place or holding off a runner challenging for your spot.

But a kick isn't the only racing technique designed to put some distance between you and a challenger.

Runners at the elite level and also those who are competitive at the age-group level often use surges during a race to change the tempo, charge up a hill or break away from a pack of runners.

A surge is similar to a kick in that it's a planned increase in the pace for a short period of time. A surge, since it comes in the middle of an event, usually isn't run as fast as a kick. Seasoned runners might be able to surge two or three times during an event, but novice runners are probably better suited for a once-a-race approach.

The key to successful surging is not to cover too much ground at any one time and when you shift back down to your racing pace not to slow too much. You defeat the purpose of the surge if you significantly back off the pace.

This technique takes a lot of practice in training, but it can be a highly effective tool in racing, helping you break the spirit of even the strongest challenger.