ANALYSIS REPORT
Coach's Summary
Focus for Run: Maintain a high-frequency, rhythmic 'short-quick' cadence in the final two strides to hit the takeoff mark perfectly. Focus for Vault: Direct the top-arm push-off vertically at the peak of the inversion to maximize push-off height and separation from the pole.
Standards & Depth
Correct
The athlete's peak height occurred significantly deep into the pit, and the bar clearance was achieved with the standards set at a deep position. The current placement allowed for a clean jump with the lowest part of the athlete's body clearing the bar safely.
Maintain the current standard depth. If the athlete moves to a stiffer pole, monitor the peak height carefully; if the peak becomes more shallow, the standards may need to be moved slightly forward, but never closer than 18 inches.
Recommended Drills
- 1High-speed pole runs to verify drop timing
- 2Walking plant drills to ensure full extension at contact
- 3High-bar trail leg swings for maximum loading efficiency
- 4Vertical shoot-to-handstand drills on floor
Phase Performance
The Run-Up
The athlete demonstrates elite-level acceleration mechanics, characterized by an upright 'running tall' posture and a vertical pelvic tilt. The pole carry is stable, with the tip descending in a controlled, rhythmic arc that synchronizes with the acceleration curve. By holding the pole high until the final phase, the athlete preserves horizontal velocity and prevents premature deceleration. This ensures that the maximum amount of kinetic energy is available for conversion during the loading phase at the box.
Perform pole runs on a track to practice maintaining maximum controllable speed while keeping the torso strictly vertical through the final three strides.
The Plant and Takeoff
The shift timing is highly efficient, with the top hand reaching full vertical extension at the moment of takeoff foot strike. However, the athlete is slightly 'under,' evidenced by the significant initial chord bend before the center of mass leaves the runway. This creates high torque and stresses the pole's material limits. The drive knee is powerful, punching upward to initiate lift, while the trail leg remains long, successfully creating a strong reverse-C shape for the subsequent swing phase.
Practice walking shift drills to ensure the top hand is at chest level two steps out and fully extended at the moment of impact.
The Swing
The swing phase utilizes a long, straight trail leg to maximize the radius of gyration, which increases the load and energy storage within the pole. As the athlete transitions into the rock-back, they effectively reduce their moment of inertia by tucking, which significantly increases angular velocity. This rapid rotation allows the hips to rise above the shoulders before the pole begins its primary recoil, keeping the athlete's body well-positioned to ride the energy of the straightening pole.
Use high-bar swing drills to focus on keeping the trail leg straight for an extra millisecond to maximize pole loading before the rock-back.
The Top End and Turn
The athlete maintains excellent proximity to the pole's chord during extension, ensuring a high efficiency of energy transfer from the recoil. The shoot is vertical and explosive, with the turn initiated correctly from the feet and hips to prevent the lower body from lagging behind the rotation. The bar clearance at 6.00m is clean, utilizing a hollow-chest position and a late pike to keep the center of gravity optimally positioned over the crossbar.
Focus on the 'top-arm punch' at the end of the turn to ensure the separation is purely vertical rather than pushing the pole horizontally.
Step
The athlete's takeoff point is approximately 4-6 inches 'under' the vertical line of the top hand. While the athlete's strength allows them to compensate, this position creates a jarring takeoff that can bleed horizontal velocity and limit the potential height of the jump. There is no evidence of overstriding; rather, the mark simply needs to be adjusted to accommodate the current approach velocity and pole stiffness.
Move the starting mark back 3 inches. This should bring the takeoff foot directly under the top hand, allowing for a cleaner, more vertical jump.
Safety
The vault was executed with high technical proficiency and adherence to safety standards. The athlete landed centrally on the landing mat, and the pole selection was appropriate for the athlete's speed and weight, showing no signs of overstressing or structural failure. The standards were set deep enough to ensure a safe landing even with the massive depth achieved during the peak of the vault.
Always maintain a focus on the 'short-quick' rhythm at the end of the run to ensure you don't get 'sucked under' on stiffer poles.
GET YOUR JUMP ANALYZED FREE
Upload your vault and get instant AI coaching feedback. Your first 3 analyses are on us — no credit card required.