Triple jump

Triple jump:

Formerly called the hop step, and jump, the triple jump is an event requiring good speed, great leg strength, and excellent coordination. Proper knee action, with thighs parallel with the ground, and equal rhythm are the keys to good performance.

The technique in the triple jump can be broken down in to the approach, plant/take off, flight, and landing.

Approach:

To ensure hitting the take off board with consistency, check marks are established using the same method as in the long jump. however, the approach is slower and more controlled than in the long jump.

Plant/take off:

Since the movement at take off is more forward than upward as compared with the long jump, the jumper does not need to settle or gather at take off . the take off is planted flat, with the centre of gravity directly over the foot.

Flight:

The first phase of the flight is the hop.

The hop, or first jump, is performed by bringing the take off leg forward after it has fully extended from the take off board . The thigh of the hopping leg is held parallel with the ground; the hopping foot lands flat in preparation for the next phase.

The step, or second jump, is performed by bringing the free leg forward and parallel with the ground, riding it forward until there is a good thigh split.

The third phase, or jump, utilizes the same technique as described in the long jump. However, the hand or sail should be used be rather than the hitch kick because there is less time to perform the action.