The APPROACH and the TAKE OFF in the Long Jump (LJ) accounts for 90-95% of how success will be measured in this event!!

Hence, developing a consistent, correct and simplified runway approach and take off are critical components of any LJ training program. A full and complete understanding and development of the following " 7 Points of LJ Excellence ", will set both the athlete and coach on a path toward high level success in this event.

SECONDARY INTRODUCTION

The following 3 statements / facts must be fully understood and used in the full and complete development of a technical package in training for the LJ event.

1. Speed of release is critical to distance attained.

2. Immediate DECELERATION and ROTATION occurs the instant the jumper leaves the ground/board at Take Off. ( T/O ).

3. Excellent and correct SPRINT MECHANICS on the runway approach will not only help create greater speed of release at the Moment of T/O, but will also help create a more consistent stride pattern to insure a correct foot placement on the T/O board. ( In effect, a fair and not foul jump )

7 TEACHING / COACHING POINTS OF EXCELLENCE IN THE LONG JUMP

1. POSTURE AT THE VERY BACK OF THE RUNWAY DURING THE START OF THE APPROACH

A. Stand tall; Head up looking down the runway; Chest up...NO BENDING / BREAKING at the waist.

2. FIRST MOVEMENT / STEP OUT OF THE BACK OF THE RUNWAY APPROACH

A. Head up, Chest up, Eyes focused straight down the runway

B. PUNT STEP is the very first movement...as the athlete begins his / her first step, the knee of the front leg ( the push leg ) must NOT pass a perpendicular line extending straight upward from the toe of that same leg.

C. Speed of Movement is NOT a critical factor in the first 2 steps out of the back of the approach. Instead, POSTURE, POSITION and CORRECT SPRINT MECHANICS are where all emphasis needs to be placed.

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