This study investigated differences in neuromuscular activation patterns of lower limb muscles between sprinters and distance runners during maximal sprinting. Ten sprinters and ten distance runners performed a 50-m maximal sprint. Spatiotemporal variables and electromyographic activity of eight lower limb muscles were analyzed across four phases of the running cycle. Sprinters showed significantly greater speed, step frequency, and step length, along with shorter contact time. They exhibited higher activation of hip extensors, particularly gluteus maximus and biceps femoris, during mid-to-late swing and contact phases. Additionally, greater activation of rectus femoris and tibialis anterior during early swing indicated faster leg recovery. These findings suggest that sprinters rely on a strong hip extension strategy and rapid leg recovery strategy to achieve superior sprint performance.