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Pole Vault Pole Selection

Pole stiffness and the height of the hand grip also control (besides proper technique)  the amount of penetration toward the pit the vaulter achieves.   Thus pole selection is a very important part of successful pole vaulting.  The following tips will help you find the appropriate pole:

• The higher the vaulter grips, and the stiffer the pole, the higher he or she is capable of jumping.

• The vaulters physical abilities will limit these factors.

• The vaulter should use a pole of proper length to facilitate correct grip height and should jump on a pole that has a rating equal to or exceeding the vaulter's weight.

• The coach should resist the temptation to raise the hand grip excessively at the expense of proper technique, or to use pole selection to compensate for poor technique.

Source:  USA Track & Field Level 1 Curriculum