that's really wierd- my...
PR-9'6
steps-5 at 71 take off at 8'6
Age-16
Pole-12'4 Skypole 130 7.5 flex
I also am getting too much bend in the pole, which is keeping me at lower heights- I shove the pole absolutely silly, then (acording to my coach) "get stuck in a C or L, and that's not going to get you over a much higher height." My (humble) advice is that I agree you definately need a high, strong plant to get the power and kick you're looking for. My coach has a drill for this- try running backwards down the runway or better yet on a wide track surface, and jumping in takeoff position. Practice getting your hands out and high fast as you take off and hold in that position until you hit the ground again. My way of thinking is that if I can get my force bihind te pole to charge it, holding back and pushing through, then swinging (that's where my problem starts with a weak swing up) than I can eliminate the C position and get up extended over the pole better.
Maybe instead of bending your knees more you should envision going forward still just a few feet up? In the pros videos it always looks like they're still going straight forward after they take off, then transition up.
That's all I have, hope it helps.
