High Jump Training Tips

Video Review...Priceless

Almost half of all cell phones now have a way to record video which gives you no excuse when you want to do some video review of yourself. Have a friend record you taking two jumps. Go back and watch those jumps and correct flaws in your approach, takeoff, and technique.

This will save your hours of time with a coach that is simply trying to tell you what to do instead of letting you see for yourself. If you want to improve quickly, watch yourself jumping...you will be amazed at how you look on film.

If you can, put your movie on a computer so you can slow it down frame by frame and watch each second of your jump at a time, then, find videos of great high jumpers on the internet and compare your form to theirs.

Plyometrics vs. Weights

If you are a beginning high jumper, don't worry so much about weights and poewr lifting, work on developing a quick, light springyness in your legs through plyometrics. Plyometrics are simply exercises that don't use weights and include things like, lunges, frog hops, bounding, etc. This will do two things for you. First, it will keep your legs fresh for meets. Lifting weights all week long can make your legs so tired that no matter how strong they are getting, they are never fresh for a meet.

Second, it will prevent the risk of injury. LIfting hard can lead to strains and overworking if your body isn't used to it.

If possible, do your plyometrics on grass to cushion your joints and muscles. This will prevent shin splints and will keep you from getting too tired too quick. Mix in some wind sprints to improve explosiveness with your plyometrics. Don't let your coach force you to train with sprinters either. Spring drills are great for long jumpers, but not so for high jumpers.

MORE COMING SOON!