There are many components to teaching the high jump. Coaches must teach athletes the proper approach, how to run the curve, how to plant and takeoff and finally the proper mechanics at the top of the bar. In the clip below Jeremy Fischer, head coach and lead instructor at the Chula Vista High Performance Training Center/USA Track and Field, demonstrates 5 drills that will help your high jumpers improve their technique at the top of the bar. Coach Fischer’s drills will improve back arch, core strength, and being patient over the bar.
The clip is just a sample from a DVD designed by Coach Fischer to teaches all aspects of the high jump. For more information about that DVD click the link 20 Drills & Techniques for Teaching the High Jump
The YouTube video below has sound,so please make sure that your sound is turned on and that you have access to the the site (some schools block access to YouTube)
Drill Summary: There are five drills in this video.
1. Leg Press – Lay down with your back on the mat and the soles of your feet flat on the mat as well. Press up into a hold position and stay there for 2-3 seconds.
2. Back Press – Get in the same position as the Leg Press, but put your hands next to your ears and push up with them while pushing up with your hips. Hold for 2-3 seconds and do 2-3 reps.
3. Press, Jack Knife – From the hold position in the Back Press, jack knife into the mat. This exercise gets jumpers used to a falling feeling.
4. Back Overs Onto Mat – Stand on the ground with your back facing the mat. Jump back onto the mat, arching your back, then lay there after landing for a couple seconds.
5. Rock Backs Into Arch Position – Lay on the side of the mat with your upper body hanging off. Rock back with the assistance of a coach and hold that position for 2-3 seconds.