Elitetrack: Sport Training & Conditioning

I'm having a problem getting on of my long jumpers to get height at take off.  She's great on the runway and very consistant, but she's very flat.  I don't' like jumping over hurdles because of the danger issue, but I've been trying to use rake touches to see if she can get up better, but it doesn't seem to be working.  What other drills are there to work on height at take off.

ANY help will be appreciated.  Thanks guys.

Do you think the problem leans on the mechanics of the last three strides, or possibly just not having enough eccentric strength at this point to handle the speed she's bringing (collapsing upon takeoff)? Coach stands on platform, dangles a tennis ball from a rope on a stick at the desired apex of trajectory, and has the jumpers try to hit it with their head in flight…that's what we've been doing. I guess that's like a rake touch. I'd never have them jump over a hurdle either…too much braking of speed, instilling of fear, and breakdown of proper mechanics.

I was having the same problem with one of my athletes last year and started a thread similar to this one:

http://www.elitetrack.com/index.php?option=com_smf&Itemid=94&topic=4296.0

Thanks salto.  It seems your athlete was having similar problems to those mine if having now.  I appreciate the redirect.

one thing that is consistent with all my flat jumps is excessive leaning. instead of being more upright

Very true about the sinking…analyse her take off, does she take of with minimal bend in her take off leg? or is it bent alot? Does her free leg drive up and out fast, or just out?

Doing 6-8 step jumps over a hurdle has worked well for me and other athletes under my coach, use a hurdle that comes apart easily and it should be very safe…perform one jump from 6-8 strides over the hurdle with focus just on height, and then have her jump normally from 10-12 strides into the pit with landing and take a look at the transfer…repeat this pairing 4 times in a good session…

works very well for our lot…

If not…she may not be strong enough.