Do you struggle with your run-up whenever you participate a sprinting competition? For an amateur like me, I choke, I panic, I overreact whenever the signal goes off. There was a few moments I was really ready to run up but the signal always goes off when I was not expected.
A run-up is like a power bar. If you managed to land on it, you will be advantaged. If you do not, you will be setback. It would not be wise of you to bet on probability, so your job is to narrow the power bar until you are ready most of the time.
However, 'how' is the question every one asks. In order to be really ready, there is no better choice than getting used to the start signal, practising run-up repeatedly and beating your record by timing yourself. Similarly, you should equip yourself with different skills. Get up and exit your comfort zone, especially when you are motivated. Never regret missing your chance, because they are for the ones who prepared for it.
So now, are you really ready?