Optimum take-off angle in the long jump.
In this study, we found that the optimum take-off angle for a long jumper may be predicted by combining the equation for the range of a projectile in free flight with the measured relations between take-off speed, take-off height and take-off angle for the athlete. The prediction method was evaluated using video measurements of three experienced male long jumpers who performed maximum-effort jumps over a wide range of take-off angles. To produce low take-off angles the athletes used a long and fast run-up, whereas higher take-off angles were produced using a progressively shorter and slower run-up. For all three athletes, the take-off speed decreased and the take-off height increased as the athlete jumped with a higher take-off angle. The calculated optimum take-off angles were in good agreement with the athletes' competition take-off angles.
Linthorne
Nicholas P
NP
Department of Sport Sciences, Brunel University, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UK. nick.linthorne@brunel.ac.uk
Guzman
Maurice S
MS
Bridgett
Lisa A
LA
D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D018763:Muscle Fatigue / Q000502:physiology*; D011187:Posture; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular / Q000502:physiology; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D014142:Track and Field / Q000502:physiology*