Long Jump: Calibrate Your Approach from the Board

Each student measures their approach backward, starting from the board, and adjusts it until they hit takeoff without looking down. It's the method jumpers use to stop fouling.

How to play

1. Reverse run: on a straight, each student starts with the takeoff foot on a line (the "board") and runs 8 steps at jump rhythm; the partner chalks where the takeoff foot lands on the eighth step (7 min).
2. Repeat: three reverse runs; take the average mark and measure it with the tape (5 min).
3. At the pit: place a cone at that distance from the takeoff zone and do run-throughs without jumping while the partner watches the plant (6 min).
4. Jumps: four jumps from the adjusted approach, moving the cone if you land short or long (9 min).
5. Log: write down your distance in meters and in steps for the class meet (3 min).

Rules

• Rake the pit after every jump.
• Nobody crosses the runway while someone is running.
• Strict turns: one jumper at a time.
• Don't jump if the sand is packed or has objects in it.

Variations

Adaptations

• Visual impairment: work with a caller clapping a rhythm from the board.
• Limited mobility: a distance throw from the board as an equivalent event.
• Afraid of the pit: practice approach and takeoff on grass with no pit landing.

Learning goals

• Work out a personal approach run.
• Take off in the zone without looking down.
• Adjust technique based on a partner's observation.

Equipment for a class of 25

• measuring tape: 2
• cones: 20
• chalk: 4
• rakes: 2

Teacher tip

No sand pit? Jump onto crash mats with a soft takeoff. The common error is chopping the last steps while staring at the board: keep cueing eyes forward.

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