The Effects of a Running Consistency Programme on Footfall Variability and Performance in the Long Jump

Introduction. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a training programme aimed to enhance toe-toboard consistency on footfall variability and performance in the long jump. Material and methods. The study involved 36 male physical education students. The experimental group participated in a 12-week training programme, whereas the control group was limited to taking part in the classes held at university. All participants performed 6 long jump trials during two testing sessions. The kinematic parameters were assessed using the Optojump Next device and were further analysed to determine the variability of footfall placement during the approach run. Results. The analysis revealed a significant (p < 0.01) decrease in footfall variability in the experimental group between the pre-test and post-test. After the completion of the training programme, the participants significantly (p < 0.05) improved their take-off accuracy. Additionally, they significantly (p < 0.05) increased their velocity in the last five steps before take-off and the effective distance of the jump (p < 0.001). Conclusions. The results of this study indicate that through specific training, it is possible to improve the consistency of the steps in the acceleration phase of the approach run in the long jump. Moreover, decreasing footfall variability helps achieve a more stable step pattern which may be beneficial for greater accuracy at the take-off board and makes it possible to increase step velocity at the final stage of the approach run.