How to Coach Pole Vaulting at a High School Level

For years, pole vaulting has been a mainstay of high school track and field. Athletes with enough talent and potential can go on to earn Division I scholarships and even compete on the global stage one day. Unfortunately, for many high schools, coaches are in short supply. Pole vaulting is a highly technical event that without proper instruction can be extremely dangerous.

Things You'll Need

  • Pole vaulting poles
  • Pole vaulting pit
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Instructions

  1. Getting Started

    • 1

      Explain the potential risks of pole vaulting to the members of your team. Stress the importance of good technique in avoiding injuries.

    • 2

      Ask the group if anyone has previous pole vaulting experience. Athletes with past experience can help explain the fundamentals to beginners.

    • 3

      Collect the proper equipment to conduct practice. Your team should have a variety of pole sizes to accommodate athletes of differing weights.

    Demonstrate the Fundamentals

    • 4

      Instruct athletes to reach their top possible speed on the take off, using correct posture and high knees while running. Tell them to keep their eyes focused on the box.

    • 5

      Teach athletes the details surrounding the "transfer phase." The transfer occurs during the last two strides of their takeoff with their weak hand leading the "pushing action." Their arms should straighten simultaneously when planting the pole into the ground and lead into their take off.

    • 6

      Familiarize athletes with the physics surrounding their event. To achieve optimum results, they should take off with as much speed and force as possible. Their pole should be planted in the very back of the box as they begin the "flight phase." Their pole should be planted for as long as possible.

    • 7

      Instruct athletes to swing their legs and hips simultaneously to ensure a smooth movement. Athletes should maintain good posture throughout the process.

    • 8

      Tell athletes that they should try to stay airborne for as long as possible, keep close to the pole and let go of the pole with their weak hand once they've reached maximum height. Their body should be arched over the pole, pushing it away.