An Examination of Approach Run Kinematics in Track and Field Jumping Events

Introduction. The aim of this study was to examine the changes in selected kinematics in the long jump, triple jump, and pole vault to highlight the unique movement pattern characteristics in the approach runs utilised in these events. Material and methods. Data were collected during 1 international and 2 national competitions from 36 male athletes (12 in each event) using an Optojump Next system. Results. This study showed the long jumpers achieved the highest mean step velocity, with the pole vaulters showing the lowest velocity. The velocity of the last step before the take-off was greater (p < 0.05) than the velocity of the penultimate step in all groups of athletes. The length of the last step before the take-off was greater (p < 0.01) than the length of the penultimate step in long jump and pole vault athletes compared to the triple jumpers. The long jumpers demonstrated less contact time (p < 0.01) than the pole vaulters. The contact time of the take-off leg was shorter (p < 0.01) compared to that of the non-take-off leg in pole vaulters. The pole vaulters demonstrated less flight time (p < 0.05) compared to the triple jumpers. Lastly, the flight time during the last step before the take-off was shorter (p < 0.01) than the flight time during the penultimate step in all groups. Conclusions. These findings revealed that each of the track and field jumping events required a distinctive approach run. Therefore, training workouts need to be designed specifically to train the unique gait pattern of the long jump, triple jump, and pole vault.