AN ANALYSIS OF PROJECTION ANGLE OF THE LONG JUMP

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the optimum projection angle and to determine the characteristics of optimal takeoff techniques. Subjects of this study included 12 male and 12 female elite long jumpers. Their performance was filmed at long jump event of the 8th China National Games. Mathematical methods, including regression analysis were used to determine the relationship of projection angle with projection velocity and projection distance, then to calculate the optimum projection angle. It was concluded that an increase in projection angle, at the expense of a normal loss of projection velocity, would benefit the projection distance according to the capability of Chinese elite long jumpers. It was also concluded that the takeoff leg should extend forward more before active landing in order to avoid extremely small segment angles of the shank.