Biomechanical Analysis of Long Jump

Ioannnis Koutsioras, Panagiotis Tsimeas, & Athanasios Tsiokanos

Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Hellas

Abstract

The purpose of this review was to concentrate and synthesize the existent knowledge relating to kinematic and dynamic characteristics of the long jump. The take off phase is the most important of the long jump. The projection velocity, the projection angle, the angular momentum and take off distance, are the main biomechanical characteristics of long jumping. The jumpers regulate their running approach using visual regulation during the last three strides. The placement of the supporting leg on the take-off board could be energetic or in blocking man- ner. The first way of placement minimizes the horizontal velocity loss, while the second way boost the development of the vertical velocity. There is an interaction between projection velocity and projection angle while the last one ranging from 15ο to 27ο. During the take-off phase angular momentum is developed. During the flight phase, various balancing movements are being executed limiting the effect of the angular momentum. No reduction of the quantity of angular momentum results in an early falling of legs on the sand and reduces the long jump distance. Most of the biomechanical studies for long jump are related to kinematic characteristics of the approach and take-off phase of elite male and female athletes, while few studies examine the corresponding characteristics of young athletes. In addition, the role of dynamic abilities of young athletes has not been re- searched. Future research should be focused both on kinematic and dynamic characteristics of young athletes.

Key words: long jump, kinematics, kinetics, projectiles, technique.