Illustrated High Jump Technique

By Mike Rosenbaum, About.com Guide

A standard 10-step approach will begin by pushing off with the takeoff foot. Jumpers will generally start slowly and accelerate throughout the approach. Again, the approach speed can be tweaked if needed, but it should remain as consistent as possible. Somewhat like a track runner, the high jumper can start in a bit of a crouch, but he/she should be running fully erect by the third step. Continue to accelerate while running in a straight line until the fifth step, which should land on your second checkmark. Prior to hitting the mark, turn your foot slightly to the middle of the track, pointing the toe in the direction of the nearest standard, to initiate the curve toward the bar.

Previous

• Introduction
• Approach - start
• Approach - straight run
• Approach - Curve
• Takeoff - double arm
• Takeoff - single arm
• Flight - arching your body
• Flight - clearing your legs
• Flight - finish

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