THE VELOCITY STRUCTURE OF APPROACH AND PERFORMANCE IN THE LONG JUMP

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the velocity structure of the approach in the long jump event. The effect of approach technique in overall performance will also be assessed, using biomechanical analysis. 527 full run-up horizontal velocity curves of long Jump measured in 527 trials using an SCL-Ⅱ Model Sports Radar Velocity Finder Instrument were analyzed and summarized. From the data, it was concluded that the full run-up of the long jump, measured in horizontal velocity curves could be classified into five types (platform type, gentle descending type, rapid descending type, multi-peak type and tailrising type). By keeping the velocity change of approach at a stable rate and maintaining high speed in the sprint, the jumper can achieve a good performance. The acceleration style of approach can be divided into two types (rapid rising type and gentle rising type). The change of acceleration velocity value reveals the long jumper's velocity ability and the stability of run-up. The difference in accelerating ability among jumpers at different levels appeared during the first second after the start. Elite long jumpers who run fast after starting often obtain good results.