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The high jump is an athletics field event, competed by both men and women. Competitors must in a series of jumps, jump over a horizontal bar placed at increasingly high measured heights. Competitors must clear the bar to progess in the competition.
Popularity
Although the event was likely competed in as early as the ancient Greek Olympics, the first recorded high jump competition took place in Scotland in the early 19th century, with clearances of up to 5'6 (1.68 m) measured. Early but old jumpers used either a straight on approach or a scissors technique.
Location
High jump is traditionally a summer outdoor event, but is now competed commonly in the winter on the indoor athletic circuit, and so can be classed an all year activity. Clubs and organisations throughout the UK hold many local and national events.
Age
There is no age limit to participate in athletics. Most athletic clubs offer junior training and coaching facilities. Only the keenest of high jumpers compete much after the age of thirty years.
Ability
The athlete must have the ability to perform a curved approach run followed by a single vertical jump, arching their back over a bar. Flexibility and kinesthesis (the ability to feel movements of the limbs and body)are key in this sport.
Description
The high jump is made over a crossbar balanced between rigid uprights. The crossbar is raised after each round, competitors remain in the competition until eliminated by three consecutive failures, regardless of the height at which they occur. The high jump comprises of three phases:- approach, take off and the flight. The technique shown above is called the Fosbury Flop, named after Dick Fosbury who was the first high jump athlete to win a Major Championship by clearing the bar backwards.
Dedication
Like most challenges in sports, you may not be able to teach your body to do what your mind wants it to do, overnight. Practice is the only way to develop these principals. It may take months or years for an athlete to really feel comfortable with their approach. In order for you to see success with this program, you must practice with determination and diligence.
Potential
High Jump is a competition held within an athletic meeting. The local club athletes progression potential is Club competitions Inter club and county competitions Nationals European championships World championships Olympic games
Closely
Related Activities
Athletics 32. High jumping has a unique technique that is unlike any other event, although it has many common traits with the other athletic disciplines, the closest being long jump 33, and triple jump 42.
Cost
High jump equiptment is supplied by the athletic club, as it is expensive and not easily transportable. Personally the high jumper must pay club membership fees, these vary depending on the facilities offered and the status of the club. And must also purchase normal athletic clothing.
Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.
Energy |
Arms
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Legs
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Sight
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Hearing
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Speech |
Learning |
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