False start occurs when an athlete moves off the mark before the actual starting signal is given. This results in either a restart or a penalty, depending on the sport’s regulations.
False starts are checked for by officials or electronic timing devices in track, swimming, triathlon, and group starts in cycling and track events. A false start in swimming pools automatically disqualifies the athlete; the first false start at track is only for warning, but subsequent ones result in disqualification. Time penalties or re-entering at the rear are what athletes may receive in triathlons. False starts disrupt the concentration of the contestants and flow of the race, and therefore it is extremely crucial to respond appropriately to the starting signal.
