One of the easiest things for a triple jumper to do if they want to increase their personal best in the triple jump is to increase the length of their runup so they get more speed. However, as the athlete increases their speed, it becomes more difficult for them to control the speed through the different phases of the triple jump. Additionally, if their triple jump run-up is too long, the athlete may start to fatigue and decelerate when approaching the triple jump board.
Given theses factors, what lengths should be recommended for the athlete?
Jonathan Edwards used an 18 stride approach.
This allowed him to maximise his velocity and carry it through the triple jump phases. Although this run-up length should only be attempted once the athlete has learned to control their hops and bounds at a very high velocity. The athlete will need to be advanced to be able to attempt this approach.
7 – 11 stride approach.
These usually give the athlete enough speed and control to transition through the different phases of the triple jump.
13 or 15 stride approach.
The athlete should attempt this run-up length after they have become comfortable with controlling their triple jump phases with a smaller run-up approach. The increase in acceleration strides will automatically add increased distance to their triple jump performance.
Things to keep in mind.
The athlete needs to remain in control when doing the triple jump. If their form breaks down whilst attempting the longer run-up, revert back to the shorter run-up.
How do you measure your triple jump runup?
There are 2 effective methods.
You measure it with measuring tape.
This is the most accurate method. Keep a 50m measuring tape on you if you take longer than 15 strides. If you don’t have one, you can purchase one on Amazon.
You measure it with your footsteps.
You will run out to your mark of 9,11,15 or 17 strides and you will measure it with your footsteps to the board. This will allow you to keep your runup consistent even if you don’t have a measuring tape available.
Useful resource: The horizontal jumps: Planning for development.
Note – This post contains affiliate links, however the opinions are my own.
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