Why are the arms important in running/sprinting?

Question

What are its functions in running as you sway them?

Also are the hamstrings and calves involved in running as much as the quadriceps?

Answer 1

When running the arms provide counter-balance and rhythm.
When sprinting, the arms provide maybe 50% of the strength and power that gets you to the finish line.
The quads don't provide much of anything during running, unless you're doing hills, except move your lower leg forward for the next stride.
The calves and hamstrings are the major muscles used in running.

In fact, running does little for the front leg muscles. So the best thing a runner can do is some gym work to keep the front of the legs strong.

Answer 2

In sprinting you use your arms to keep the stride length long.
The arms also help maintain stride frequency.
They are used to balance your body as the legs move front to back.

All of your muscles are required to run, and the leg muscles are the major mover of your body.
The quads are the prime movers, but without the other muscle groups you would not be able to move the leg forward for another step nor stop its forward motion.
To complete a step you should be driving off of the front of your foot which is flexed by the calf muscles.

Answer 3

well they're important when u want to speed up but also because if u have them clenched up, its not good because you want to expand your lung capacity. Having them low is good so you can take in as much oxygen as possible. Also, when you want to move your legs faster, its easier to think about pumping your arms faster. The faster your arms move, the faster your legs move. If you've ever noticed, you may know that everytime you walk, your arms and legs work together, oppositely. They kind of have a rhythm and its easier to move faster this way than to think about move your legs faster.

Answer 4

They help you with ur stride/endurance/and breathing.