"Going Elastic"

[andy94566]

At takeoff, many people are telling me that I need to be elastic with the bottom arm and keep the hand away from my face, while maintaining elasticity. I've heard and read that this will help develop a chest drive, and keep my hips back, which is a huge problem that I have been relentlessly trying to fix. Based on my latest videos that can be found here at the end of the page: http://polevaultpower.com/forum/viewtop ... 7&start=12 does anyone have any advice on this issue for me? Thanks!

[vquestpvc]

Far too many young vaulters are concerned with the bottom arm for too many reasons. The bottom arm essentially does two things: 1) helps carry the pole and 2) helps pull/push off the top. In actually, it is the top arm that bends the pole; that is completely a leverage thing. Most certainly the placement of the left arm at takeoff can be important. If directly in front of your face it can block out the swing which is critical for inverting. So, the left hand should also go high above the head. Think of it as jumping to a horizontal bar; both hands go high. As far as "elastic" goes it is a great concept, but let the placement of your arms at take off be more of a concern. This, with a good approach, pole plant and high, tall take off will create all that is necessary to vault well. Oh yeah, that and consistent, safe practice.

[andy94566]

Far too many young vaulters are concerned with the bottom arm for too many reasons. The bottom arm essentially does two things: 1) helps carry the pole and 2) helps pull/push off the top. In actually, it is the top arm that bends the pole; that is completely a leverage thing. Most certainly the placement of the left arm at takeoff can be important. If directly in front of your face it can block out the swing which is critical for inverting. So, the left hand should also go high above the head. Think of it as jumping to a horizontal bar; both hands go high. As far as "elastic" goes it is a great concept, but let the placement of your arms at take off be more of a concern. This, with a good approach, pole plant and high, tall take off will create all that is necessary to vault well. Oh yeah, that and consistent, safe practice.

Thanks for the input! I will work on getting my arms in good position with a good high plant and take off for the rest of the season.