Therefore, in the present study we first explored potential latent factors (determined by exploratory factor analysis [EPA]; see methods section for details) influencing ground-force application during the sprint start, and how such factors might relate to start performance in NASs. Based on the literature it was hypothesized that at least two latent factors affect force application to the blocks: One was the overall resultant force the athlete applies to them and the other was the direction of that force. Based on the enhanced understanding provided by this initial part of our study, we then compared the start performance and ground-force application characteristics of ASs and NASs.