The Pole Vault Carry with Mark Strawderman

NPVCA Curriculum #2

Mark Strawderman teaches the pole vault carry, an important part of the overall pole vault. A proper carry puts the athlete in the correct posture and position to accelerate with the pole down the runway. From the Come to Pole Vault Practice DVD.

Pole Vault Carry Basic Technique

Importance

An effective Pole Carry allows the athlete to run at top speed during the Approach Run. When the Carry is correct, the vaulter is able to run with a sprinter's erect posture while maintaining top speed. If done poorly, the Pole Carry is uncomfortable and restricts the athlete's ability to run at top speed.

Technical Model

Carry the pole with the pole tip raised and angled slightly across the body so the hips can move freely. It is personal preference how high the pole tip is elevated. We suggest raising the tip to a position that feels comfortable.

The right-hander positions the right (top) hand next to the right hip so it can bear most of the pole's weight. The right hand is held directly under the right elbow and both face forward towards the landing pit. The left hand holds the pole in front of the chest. A right angle is formed from the left hand to the left elbow. Another right angle is created from the left elbow to the left shoulder. The left hand holds the pole in a relaxed manner and guides the pole during the Approach Run. The hands remain shoulder width apart and do not change position. We suggest moving the pole up and down slightly during the Approach Run. Do not allow the vaulter to pump the pole forward and backward at any time during the Approach Run.

Drills

1. Have the vaulter hold a broomstick and check his or her Pole Carry in front of a mirror at home. The athlete should check the right angle formed by the hands and elbows when facing the mirror and turned sideways.

2. Use a long or weighted pole to check hand and elbow positions. Then practice walking and running with the overweight or longer pole to improve balance plus core body, top arm and shoulder strength. Keep the pole tip raised to make the drill more effective. (See Figure C)

Figure C. See Drill #2

Coaching Points

Make sure vaulters do not change the width of their grip when carrying the pole. A wider distance between hands makes the pole feel lighter, but it disturbs the planting action that follows the Approach Run. Keep the pole tip elevated to make the pole feel lighter.

Take particular care to make sure young vaulters don't pump the pole forward and backward when they run. This causes over-striding, disturbs balance and interferes with the timing of the Plant.

The shoulders remain square to the pit throughout the Approach Run. The only time the shoulders turn is during the second step of the Plant.

Previous: #1 – The Pole Vault Grip

Next: #3 – Approach Run