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Gymcraftics

"The Pole Vault Ride to Swing-Up"  -  
Notes from an "Air Time Athletics" Newsletter.

As an athlete begins to learn to pole vault there is often a desire on the part of the coach, vaulter and teammates to achieve right away. Often the first thought, in order to “get a height”, is to swing both legs into the air and get them over the crossbar. This action, trying to get feet over the bar, makes it very difficult for the athlete to continue to progress and improve over time.

So, what can an athlete and coach new to vaulting do? That is the topic of this month’s newsletter. The “ride” which comes after take-off, as far as I can see, is the most important part of learning to pole vault well.

Take offs

Monkey Rolls & Structures

Some preparations, before the ride, need to be clear.

   A/ The pole in use is one that is comfortable, short at first, not too heavy, and the space between both hands wide enough to support the press-ride with balance.

   B/ The approach run has a consistent location of the take-off step as the top of the pole is pressed upward, above the forehead.

   C/ Plant the pole early and centered in front of the body.

   D/ The take-off is launched with the final “penultimate step”, gaining speed as both hands and the lead knee drive upward.

  This is necessary preparation for holding the “press position” as illustrated in photos below.

     * Why is this position so valuable to learn from the outset?

       - A fiberglass pole can seem to bend many ways, and, wants to flex forward and upward if held correctly.

       - It helps the vaulter move toward the center of mats. 

       - To maintain a more trusted travel path for the vaulter.

       - To create energy in the pole that can increase height.

      - Why have the swing-up come after the ride?

       - When learning to swing up-side-down, the movement direction can help tell the vaulter                                                          where the landing is to take place.

       - A consistent forward and upward flex-ride moves the vaulter to the center of the mat as the angle                                        of each swing-up increases.

       - The process indicated works best with careful steps, developed over time, for the specific needs of each athlete.

“There is no hurry on the creative plane.” Cerutty  

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Practice

Progressions       

"The Pole Vault Ride to Swing-Up"  -

Support & Balance

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Indoors & Outdoors    

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