This chapter outlines the requirements for preparing an athlete for speed development. In an optimal situation, an athlete would have adequate strength in place to undertake proper sprinting technique. However, the situation is rarely optimal, and defi ciencies often need to be addressed. A good coach must be able to assess the abilities of the athletes under his or her charge and then plot out an appropriate course of action. Although many coaches believe that strength must be in place before speed can be developed, the challenge is not so simple. Various abilities must be developed concurrently to take advantage of the limited time available and allow for the natural integration of technical profi ciency, coordination and strength.