A SIMPLE MODEL TO FIND A HIGH JUMP APPROACH

High Jump Baby Step #1 is the Approach. Consistency and a measured-out approach is key for continued success.

So, you may be asking “how do I find a good approach?”

Here is our recommended model:

Important note: Have the athlete do any jumps, bounds, or skips they want to do in their approach while doing these approach runs. The only steps that should look the same are the last 5-6 steps.

Go to a basketball court or outside away from a high jump mat.

1. Have the athlete run 10 steps in a straight line and mark the 10th step. Repeat 3-5 times until consistent.

2. Have the athlete run 10 steps in a straight line and mark the 5th step. Repeat 3-5 times until consistent. 3. Have the athlete run a curve they feel comfortable with when they hit their 5th step. Repeat 3-5 times until consistent.

Note: The athletes run with the curve should come close to being just as far as their 10th step running in a straight line. If it is not close, then the curve is too wide.

4. Measure from the takeoff point out parallel to the imaginary bar and from this point extend to the mid and to the starting point which should be perpendicular to the imaginary bar. The athlete now has a mark to transfer to the apron. 5. The coach and athlete should determine the take-off point on the apron and measure from this point. 6. The athlete should then run the approach on the apron with the pit and standards in place adjusting as needed. 7. Measure out mark from the inside of the standard.