PoleVaultPower.com

Hey everyone,
Over the last few days, I've been jumping pretty well and have been getting my left arm placed correctly. The problem is, I seem to only be doing this part and not really "jumping jumping".

I have taken a few good attempts at some bungies but the thing is, I can't really seem to get my chest out and through and get in the "c" position to swing up to the top of the pole. Anyone have any advice? Maybe I'm just hanging on to the pole during flight or I'm not taking off correctly? My run is pretty upright so I don't think that's it.

Let me know if you need me to explain more thoroughly, Maybe I can get some videos tomorrow.

Thanks,
AJ

I'll be happy to comment on your takeoff, pre-stretch (aka C), and swing ... once I see your vid.

Kirk

Are you practicing your swing on a highbar/rope/rings every day? Are you doing short-run stiff pole drills and distance vaulting, every time you vault? Are you doing multiple pole runs every practice? It takes a lot of repetition on these types of drills to learn how to plant/swing properly...you can't really learn the vault on a full approach, that's just where you "put it all together". Become an expert at the highbar drills you see on the video section of this website and your swing/inversion will definitely improve.
In addition, many young vaulters (and their coaches) want to grip too high for their takeoff, which makes it impossible to have a nice, long, flowing swing that carries up to cover the pole. Remember, if you aren't vaulting above your grip, you are probably gripping too high. Definitely need a vid to really help you specifically.
Good luck, be patient, do lots of drills, and do them well. Remember that your body will remember the swing you've learned on the gymnastic apparatus at the instant you swing on the pole, so you'd better be practicing it right! There is no secret, just hard work

Tom