The purpose of this study was to determine how the maximum height of the jumper`s centre of mass (CM) during the flight phase of the high jump is dependent on the kinematic variables of the take-off and to update current knowledge about the development and performance of the Fosbury Flop technique. The best jumps of the finalists at the 2005 IAAF World Championships in Athletics were filmed and analysed. The authors confirmed earlier findings that the vertical velocity and height of the CM at the end of the take-off phase together determine the height of the flight. The most important factor related to vertical velocity at the moment the take-off foot loses contact with the ground is the the CM position when the foot touches down for the take-off. CM height at this point is related more to arm technique more than physique. The difference due to arm action can be 8 cm, if the jumper is 2 m tall.
© Copyright 2007 New Studies in Athletics. Alle Rechte vorbehalten.