Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

back-run

verb

/ˈbæk rʌn/

Definition

A term used in sports, particularly in relay races, to describe the action of moving backwards while ensuring the baton is passed effectively between runners.

Examples

In the final stretch of the race, the athlete had to back-run to catch the baton from her teammate.
The coach instructed the runners to practice back-running to improve their handoff techniques.
During practice, we focused on minimizing the time spent back-running to enhance our overall speed.

Meaning

Back-running is essential in relay events where the outgoing runner must retrieve the baton from the incoming runner, facilitating a smooth transition if the outgoing runner is positioned behind the incoming runner.