The purpose of this study was twofold: first, to determine the physical characteristics of U20 (under 20) long jumpers to identify the level of speed parameters during the last 10 m of the run-up and the last three steps of the run-up, thus profiling the specific speed level of the research subjects; second, to ascertain whether the level of horizontal speed at takeoff influences the performance obtained in the competition, both as a group and as an individual tendency. The study involved eight female long jump athletes who were finalists of CN Outdoor U20 and were aged between 15 and 18 years (M = 16.87, S = 0.75). The results of the study allowed us to establish the profile of the specific speed level for all participating sportswomen. The specific speed level was found to be weak compared to the requirements of international long jump performance. Additionally the study highlighted a significant correlation between horizontal speed during the run-upand the performance obtained in competition, r = 0.748, n = 8, and p = 0.033. There was also a significant correlation between the change in horizontal speed at takeoff and the performance obtained, r = -0.978, n = 8, and p < 0.001. Conclusion: The results of this study are consistent with the theoretical models in the specialized literature, revealing deficiencies in the subjects' speed levels specific to the long jump event. This study also opens opportunities for further research aimed at improving the methodology of force and speed development, as well as their combination, to enhance the explosive force of the lower limbs. This is recognized as an essential condition for achieving superior performance in competition.
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