High Jump Basics

High jumpers must leap over a four-meter long bar without knocking the bar off of its supports. The sport requires speed and agility along with proper technique.

The jump includes three phases: the approach, take-off and flight. The approach must be made at maximum speed while still keeping the body under sufficient control to insure a proper take-off. Jumpers must take off on one foot, clear the bar and leave the landing mat while the bar remains in place.

In competition, the bar is set at a relatively low height for the first round. Jumpers have three opportunities to clear the bar in each round.