Track & Field: Triple Jump Progression

A step-by-step triple jump progression, from a standing sequence to a full jump with measuring. Students build leg power, the rhythm of the three contacts (hop, step and jump) and a balanced landing in the pit.

How to play

1. Specific warm-up (5 min): skips, alternating hops and easy bounding along a 20 m straight.
2. Standing sequence on hoops (6 min): in groups of 5, set 3 hoops 1.5 m apart and go through them with a right-right-left pattern (or left-left-right), walking first and then jumping.
3. Rhythm with a short approach (6 min): repeat the sequence with a 3–5-step approach, spreading the hoops to 2–2.5 m and aiming for three phases of similar length.
4. Landing in the pit (6 min): from a takeoff zone 5–7 m from the pit, triple jump off a 5-step approach and land on both feet, swinging the arms forward so you don't fall back.
5. Measuring (5 min): taking turns, each student gets two measured attempts; one partner measures from the takeoff mark and another rakes.
6. Analysis (2 min): each pair identifies which phase of their jump was shortest and what to fix on the next attempt.

Rules

• The pit is dug and raked before every jump; nobody crosses the runway.
• Only one jumper at a time, and wait for the signal from the student raking.
• If your knee or ankle hurts, switch to walking through the sequence.
• Mark the takeoff with a cone or tape, never with a raised board.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: serves as takeoff judge and measurer, or performs the arm action and rhythm from a wheelchair by clapping the sequence.
• Autism or shyness: numbered colored hoops, a set partner to follow and the sequence written on a card.
• Knee problems or lower fitness: walk the sequence or do short hops on grass with no pit landing.

Learning goals

• Perform the triple jump contact sequence with rhythm and balance.
• Apply leg power at takeoff and in each phase of the jump.
• Analyze their own performance using measurements and a partner's feedback.

Equipment for a class of 25

• sand pit: 1
• measuring tape: 2
• hoops: 15
• rake: 1

Teacher tip

The classic mistake is a huge first hop that leaves no power for the step, so cue three phases of similar length. Limit the number of full-approach attempts to protect students' knees.

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