The Horizontal Jumps - Technical Training For The Long Jump - Nick Newman Final
The Horizontal Jumps - Technical Training For The Long Jump - Nick Newman Final
The Horizontal Jumps - Technical Training For The Long Jump - Nick Newman Final
Technical Training
Technical training is an important element in any training program. For a long jumper, it can take many
forms. Some aspects are subtle and, at first glance, may not appear related to the technical model. I believe,
however, that all training components can be linked in some way, and it’s simply a matter of perspective
and deeper thinking that allows us to make the connection.
Throughout this article, I will discuss areas of technical training that I believe essential for the development
of long jumpers. I will categorize each element and provide a clear understanding of how to build a
comprehensive technical training system. I will also include a guide to long jumping technique and discuss
important technical aspects as they pertain to particular drills and training methods.
More than 95% of the distance achieved during the long jump is determined by the speed generated during
the athlete’s approach. A successful approach run is complex and involves several distinct components. I’ll
focus on the technical aspects of each training component.
Acceleration
As an absolute quality, the ability to accelerate plays an important role for maximum velocity. During an
approach run, where most athletes are limited to 18-23 strides (35-55m), acceleration technique is
considerably important. The goal is not only to achieve near maximum velocity but to do so in rhythm with
correct posture and timing.
A jumper must accelerate smoothly and relaxed for successful transitioning during the final 10m and
through takeoff. The ability to accelerate fast and relaxed while demonstrating upright running mechanics
is key and requires considerable practice.
Depending on the time of year, acceleration sessions generally occur 2-3 times per week. Running at lower
intensities is included on other days and serves well for rhythm, technique, and recovery.
Acceleration sessions require repeated bouts of sprinting over 20-40m performed at 95-100% effort.
Relaxation and smooth sprinting mechanics are key and must transfer to approach running.
Max Velocity
Our goal is to develop athletes who will reach high maximum velocities without straining or demonstrating
inefficient sprint technique.
As stated, horizontal velocity is the largest determining factor when achieving elite distances. Due to the
technical aspects of the takeoff and flight phases, however, it is rarely possible or advantageous for athletes
to reach 100% of maximum speed during their approach. Therefore, the relative approach speed becomes
very valuable.
We know the approach velocities required to achieve certain distances, and we know the relationship
between horizontal velocities and takeoff angle. Through maximum speed development, we can create a
speed buffer. This buffer allows the athlete to achieve high velocities while maintaining optimal technique
and focus without straining or feeling out of control.
Developing maximum velocity starts with the ability to both accelerate efficiently and maintain a high level
of coordination and synchronicity over a 35-55m distance.
Fly sprints are particularly useful when focusing on max velocity mechanics and high-speed output in
isolation. After a period of acceleration work, I gradually introduce fly sprints to the program. I like to use
a 35m gradual acceleration (25m for women) into a 10-30m zone. I’ve found that 95-98% of max velocity
can be achieved via a gradual (slightly sub max) acceleration while maintaining a smooth and relaxed
sprinting technique. Fly sprints, my favorite method, closely resemble a long jumper’s approach.
I generally progress the speed program by including Sprint–Float–Sprints (SFS). SFS creates the perfect
bridge between fly sprints and special speed endurance development that occurs next and last in the speed
progression. I start around 90m total length and progress to 150m. The total length is broken down into
sections. For example, a 90m SFS may include a 30m acceleration followed by a 30m float section
followed by a final 30m sprint.
It’s important to understand the purpose and requirements of the float section. During the float, I cue the
athlete to switch off the burners while maintaining as much speed as possible. The approach run requires
relaxed and controlled speed. Achieving high speed in this manner is a skill, and the practice of smooth
accelerations, fly sprints, SFS, and slower extensive tempo running sessions all contribute to development.
The final progression involves special speed endurance work. This follows two basic formats, one for short
speed endurance and one for long speed endurance. A short speed endurance protocol could be 2x5x40m
sprints at 90% with 2 min and 6 min recovery. One protocol for long speed endurance could be 4x150m
sprint at 90% with 8 min recovery. Developing speed endurance enhances an athlete’s freedom when
running at high speeds; another method to help improve high velocity sprinting while relaxed. Without
specifically discussing sprint technique, we can see the common technical themes throughout all speed
development methods as they relate to the long jump approach.
Approaches
Approach development becomes the focal point throughout the competitive period and special training
phases. Here, the countless hours developing technique and sprinting speed are put to practical use.
The most important technical cue word is rhythm. Rhythm has a personal touch. A successful approach has
a steady and consistent build of energy, and achieving this can be very difficult. It requires a certain
connection to the approach and a high-level kinesthetic awareness. Both can be learned and practiced.
Approach development starts early in the program and should be a conscious thought during build ups,
strides, accelerations, and fly sprints. Rhythmic sprint drills can also teach the gradual build.
Runway work is essential, and the volume and frequency of runway practice increase throughout the
preparation and competition phases. Generally I start developing rhythm away from the runway because the
takeoff board can be distracting in the early phases. After the initial rhythm isolation and transitioning and
takeoff work, I gradually blend everything together via a combination of drills, short approach jumps, and
full approach run-throughs.
Specific technical aspects of the approach are addressed in various ways because there are several
components to consider. The primary areas of focus include:
Characteristics of good approach running include a tall posture, an elastic bouncy stride with a high front
side action, and large overall amplitude. Ideally an athlete demonstrates an active build with no wasted
strides. Strides are powerful, dynamic, and rhythmic. Correct energy expenditure is essential, and allowing
momentum to carry an athlete is a specific skill. Throughout the season, these aspects are discussed and
practiced hundreds of times.
I determine approach length and stride number largely based on the athlete’s ability to achieve their highest
approach speeds. I decide this regardless of whether the athlete can successfully transition and takeoff at
that particular speed. Maximum relative approach speed gives athlete the greatest chance of success and
they will develop the ability to handle their fastest approach speeds over time. Optimal stride number often
can be determined from acceleration and fly speed tests performed regularly throughout the preparation
period.
Having determined approach stride number, we begin to develop an approach style. I prefer to use a similar
approach style. Ideally, athletes practice a gradual and smooth acceleration through the board with specific
stride characteristics. There are athletes, however, who have a strong ability to maintain speed without
technical breakdown. These athletes may benefit from a slightly different approach rhythm. An altered
starting method and more aggressive acceleration style may work best. It’s very important to experiment to
determine which method works best for each individual.
Several common practices exist that create a fouling mentality, and I use several training methods to help
combat the issue. I want to stress that these training methods are effective only if athletes make a conscious
effort and demand the execution of legal jumps. Fouling is a psychological choice.
Here are psychological factors that contribute to fouling.
Many jumpers do several, if not all, of the above. Coaches often believe fouling requires moving the
starting mark back a few inches. Sure, some athletes need more room to execute their ideal running style
and rhythm and should move back their starting marks. But if technique and rhythm are ideal and an athlete
is fouling by a close margin each time, moving the starting block simply takes the responsibility away from
the athlete. This basically allows athletes to leave fouling, or legal jumping, to chance.
Here are several factors that contribute to legal jumping and approach and board accuracy.
Neither approach nor board accuracy is a blind act. They both require deliberate strategies and the use of
visual guidance. In my experience, one of the more difficult habits to develop among jumpers is
maintaining eye contact with the board. Maintaining visual focus on the target throughout all but the
approach’s final stride significantly increases board accuracy.
The approach is sectioned into three phases. The first two phases are controlled, deliberate, and practiced
hundreds of times. For simplicity, a 20-stride approach for an elite male jumper will require a phase 1 mark
at step 6. I like long powerful strides to establish the beginning rhythm of the approach run. I believe
aggressive and long ground contacts are better for establishing a consistent rhythm. The athlete must hit the
6 step mark every time during all approach runs and jumps, both short and full.
2) Establishing a Phase 2 Mark
Phase 2 is the final controlled portion of the approach and sets up the all-important final 6 strides toward
the board. The 14th stride contact establishes the phase 2 marker. Generally, since the athlete’s eyes are
fixed on the takeoff board during this phase, the marker is for the coaches.
Consistency and accuracy during the first two phases will significantly increase effective steering during
the final phase. Less error early equals less adjustment later.
To enhance the learning effect, I’m a big believer in practicing skills in various ways. Board accuracy is no
different. Increasing the need to make approach adjustments forces the athlete to cognitively engage in the
process of targeting.
During the Varied Start Method, the athlete first establishes an accurate approach mark, one where they can
consistently hit the board with a rough variability of 10-20cm. With the starting mark established, the coach
starts the athlete’s approach from a different mark, either forward or back within a 30-60cm range. From
this new starting mark, the athlete is expected to maintain at least the 10-20cm board accuracy.
The Varied Targeting Method also promotes cognitive board awareness. Here the athlete starts the
approach from an accurate starting mark and receives specific board targeting instructions. For example,
during attempt 1 they’re asked to strike 30cm before the board, and during attempt 2 they’re asked to strike
with a toe on the board. Coaches can use many variations.
During the Forced Legal Method, the athlete has no option to foul because the foul portion of the board is
blocked. I’ve placed bright cones along the board’s fouling section to prevent the athlete from hitting it.
Wood or other barriers can be used. It may sound dangerous, but in my experience, every athlete hits the
legal portion of the board if the option to foul no longer exists. This echoes the fact that fouling is largely
psychological.
I find continuous takeoff drills great for developing rhythm, timing, and elastic qualities. Randomly
changing hurdle position forces the athlete to develop awareness and, over time, the ability to instantly
adjust stride length with minimal loss of speed, rhythm, and timing.
These 4 methods are my go-to methods for working on board accuracy skill. At the very least, they can
help shift focus from jumping distance to technique. But I don’t use them with all athletes, as some tend to
overanalyze and the methods become detrimental. If the athlete has great discipline and focus, none of the
methods are needed.
Developing the Takeoff
The Takeoff Model
The takeoff cannot occur without the penultimate stride. The two are essentially linked, and every action
that occurs with either stride affects the other. We cannot talk about one without talking about the other.
Therefore, we shouldn’t practice one without practicing the other. Certainly, the two have their own distinct
characteristics, but it’s their connection that makes the technique whole. We should only isolate the
movements for absolute beginners.
Here are my key characteristics for the penultimate stride and takeoff as well as commonly seen errors.
• Standing Penultimate: Penultimate leg bent at knee up, land with heal lead, roll on and off foot
• Continuous Knee Drive Drill: Drive free leg knee up and down with support leg stiff hopping
forward
• 1 Step Takeoffs: Continuous takeoffs with 1 running step in between
• 3 Step Takeoffs: Continuous takeoffs with 3 running steps in between
• 5 Step Takeoffs: Continuous takeoffs with 5 running steps in between
• Alternate Easy Skip with Aggressive Skip: Drive knee on aggressive skip like a takeoff
• Power Skips: Alternate jumps working on knee drives
• Mini Hurdle Takeoffs: Work on penetration past hurdle
• High Hurdle Takeoffs: Work on vertical components of jump
• Penultimate Step Box Drill: Run penultimate off low box onto takeoff and jump
• S/L Depth Takeoff: Drop from low box into takeoff action
• S/L Depth Takeoff with Preceding Running Strides: As above with a run onto the box
• Short Run Jumps with and without Landing with and without Weight Vest: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, etc.,
strides
• Rhythm Runs with a Pop Up: 70-80% runs with a pop up at end
The flight’s purpose is to counter forward rotation and set up an ideal landing position. In this regard, the
flight can greatly impact the outcome of a jump. I find that a basic hang or 1-and-half hitch is ideal. Of the
two, I prefer the hang; it’s easier to coordinate the ideal landing position during the simplest flight
technique.
Here are the key characteristics of the flight phase as well as commonly seen errors.
Key Characteristics of the Flight Phase
After the initial free leg swing, the leg begins a cycle and extends downward
As arms naturally cycle from takeoff, the same arm as free leg extends vertically as the free leg extends
downward
Both arms reach high above the head and maintain vertical positions through the flight
At the top of the flight, both legs position forward with knees moving upwards toward chest
While maintaining a vertical torso with arms up and forward, the hips position forward with legs extending
far ahead of the COM
Torso remains vertical and arms up while heels make contact with the sand
So, for the landing, the athlete must achieve the correct position before contact with the sand. Here we want
a vertical, or slightly leaned back, torso with hips ahead of the shoulders. This allows the knees to fully
extend before contacting the sand with the heels. At the instant of the heel strike, the hamstrings and glutes
aggressively contract. This action combined with forward momentum forces the athlete’s hips to travel past
the point where the heel strike occurred.
The correct landing action is essential but, without perfect timing, many errors occur. Here are the key
characteristics of a good landing and commonly seen errors.
Very early in development, several method drills can establish awareness of certain technical goals and
expectations. Sitting on a chair while actively heel striking the sand, for example, can teach a young athlete
to extend their legs and engage the hamstrings during the movement. We can progress this to a standing
long jump exercise practicing the same movement. These type of drills, however, will have little carry over
to event specific requirements if we don’t implement whole practice jumping.
In the world of Track and Field, drills, and there are hundreds of them, are the centerpiece of many training
programs. Coaches will spend hours painstakingly researching, practicing, and creating drills designed to
teach technical aspects of the event.
Unfortunately drills are often practiced with little to no realization of the drill’s actual purpose. Drills can
be as irrelevant and meaningless as they can be masterful for skill acquisition. The most important aspect of
any drill is how the coach or athlete identifies and connects fundamentals to the overall goal.
A drill by itself isn’t enough to teach a skill. Awareness must be established early in technical
development about the purpose, goals, and outcomes desired from all drills and technical practices. As long
as connections are made between each drill and the event’s fundamental requirements, we may see
successful transfer.
General Preparation
Technical training begins, as does physical training, during the General Preparation Phase. Here we
introduce technical models accompanied by partial drills and preparatory exercises. Video analysis work
begins to provide a deep understanding of the end goal. I also include weekly visualization sessions of the
whole skill (full event situation technique) during all phases of the year in gradually increasing and
eventually decreasing amounts.
During this time, technical training’s purpose is to introduce and teach, not to spend an exhaustive amount
of time perfecting these drills. Below is an example of a technical training session that’s incorporated into a
6-day training week. This particular session is specific to long jump but technical emphasis is also placed
on sprinting, plyometric, weight lifting, and throwing sessions.
Below is an example of a technical training session incorporated into a 6-day training week during this
phase. During another day of the week, we begin full approach development by establishing steps, rhythm,
and check marks. Typically, this begins away from the takeoff board.
Full approach sessions are also in full swing, and it isn’t uncommon to begin full approach takeoffs as well.
I firmly believe that it’s very difficult to bridge the gap between increased sprinting speed and short
approach technique without performing full speed jumps or, at least, takeoffs. During this phase, we only
use partial skill exercises when issues arise and technical fixes are needed.
Below is an example of a technical training session that’s incorporated into a 6-day training week during
this phase.
Example A:
Mon Tues Wed Thur Fri Sat
Accel Video Flys Video Accel Speed End
Plyo Tech Drills Approaches Tech Drills Plyo Circuits
Weights Tech Jumps Weights Tech Jumps Weights
Example B:
Mon Tues Wed Thur Fri Sat
Accel Flys Recovery Accel Speed End Recovery
Plyo Tech Drills Tempo Tech Drills Circuits Tempo
Weights Tech Jumps Circuits Tech Jumps Circuits
Example C:
Mon Tues Wed Thur Fri Sat
Video Accel Recovery Video Flys Speed End
Tech Drills Plyo Tempo Tech Drills Tech Drills Circuits
Tech Jumps Weights Circuits Tech Jumps Tech Jumps
Closing Thoughts
There’s a lot to consider when planning technical training, from exercise and drill selection to teaching
strategies and ways to incorporate technical work into the weekly plan.
A successful program shouldn’t be determined by a single drill or series of progressions. More important is
that we promote understanding and a self-correcting culture with our athletes. Coaches should teach drills
they understand and that relate to the technical model. Always determine the purpose of an exercise and
how it fits with the big picture before implementing it into the program. A drill is useless if the athlete
doesn’t get it, and a coach must find a way to connect what the athlete is doing to what they think they’re
doing.
Technical progressions are essential and should reflect the training of the particular phase. All training
components should coincide and reflect the long-term plan. It,s important to be flexible and highly adaptive
as an athlete rarely goes through a season following plan A. Coaching is a process of analyzing and
adapting and requires a highly interactive approach on a daily basis.
Sometimes it’s OK to perform a drill that doesn’t make sense to anyone but the athlete. Legendary coach
Randy Huntington once said, “Sometimes we do and say stupid things in order to get the job done.” Having
worked with youth athletes for many years, I certainly echo these words.