The long jump is half run-up, half jump. A bad approach means a bad jump no matter how strong the legs. This drill builds the approach in stages: walk, jog, run, then the full jump.
What you need: A long jump runway and pit (or grass area with a marker for the takeoff board), measuring tape.
Setup: Mark the takeoff board. Measure 30 feet back as the start.
How to run it:
- Walk the approach. Note which foot lands on the takeoff board.
- Jog the approach. Foot should still hit the board (adjust the start if not).
- Run the approach at half speed. Hit the board.
- Run at three-quarter speed. Add the jump after takeoff.
- Full speed approach with full jump. Land in the pit.
What to watch: The takeoff foot. Most kids are right-foot dominant. The right foot has to land on the takeoff board. If they hit with the wrong foot, the start position is off.
If they’re struggling: Shorter approach (15 feet). Just work on the takeoff foot accuracy.
If they’ve got it: Lengthen the approach to 50 feet. Full speed jumps with measured landings.