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The long jump is a track and field event in which athletes combine speed, strength and agility in an attempt to leap as far as possible from a takeoff point. Along with the triple jump, the two events that measure jumping for distance as a group are referred to as the "horizontal jumps".
Apr 30, 2021 · Learn how long jump works, the different techniques and strategies used by athletes, and the history of this ancient sport in the Olympics. Find out the world records and the top performers in long jump events.
- Utathya Nag
May 31, 2024 · Learn about the sport of long jump, a horizontal jump for distance, from Britannica's experts. Find out how it is performed, who are the top athletes, and what are the records and milestones in the event.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
- Method
- Tips
Decide which foot you will take off with. The takeoff foot is the one that hits the takeoff board; it is the foot you jump off the board with. Generally, a right-handed long jumper takes off with the left foot. New jumpers can try both styles to see which works best.[1] X Research source To determine your takeoff foot, have a friend gently push you from behind. The foot you step forward from ...Figure out the number of strides you will take. Practice your run-up several times to determine how many strides you'll take before performing the jump. Generally, the number of strides corresponds to your age, for example:[2] X Research source 10 years = 10-11 strides 11 years = 10-12 strides 12 years = 11-13 strides 13 years = 12-14 strides 14 years = 13-15 strides 15 years = 14-16 strides ...Determine your starting point. To discover the starting point for your jump, start with your back to the sand pit at the point you will jump from. Run toward the area you generally start from, but only run the same number of strides you have determined you will take before jumping. The spot where you end your last stride is your starting point. Do this several times and adjust your starting ...Place markers at your starting point. You'll need to use visible markers that will stand out from other jumpers who have a similar starting point. You can put cones, small flags, brightly colored rocks, or colored tape at your starting point. Place them off to the side of the track so they don't get in the way of jumpers or people competing in other events.Keep your head up. Make sure your chin is parallel to the ground and your eyes are up. If you look down, you will jump down. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0Try throwing your arms back, and then snapping them forward upon landing for greater distance and balance. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0Practice often, but avoid performing more than 10 jumps during a session. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0Land as low as you can to the ground. This gives more air time and better distance. Bend your knees upon landing to get as close to the sand as possible, and lean your body forward onto your knees if needed.Start by focusing on nailing down proper long jump form instead of just achieving distance. Once you feel comfortable with the right motions and techniques, then start working to maximize how far you jump.- 810.2K
Learn how long jump works, its history and world records, and watch videos of the event. Find out the current world rankings of men's and women's long jumpers.
• Long jump approaches 4-8, with and without takeoffs in spikes. • Landing drills, pick 2-4 depending on time of year and athlete. • Pick on additional takeoff drill; finish with some short approach jumps.
Learn how long jump evolved from a test of physical prowess in ancient Greece to a refined and structured sport in the modern era. Discover the rules, techniques, records, and milestones that shaped long jump throughout history.
