Triple Jump

The triple jump is quite a complex event. It requires the competitors to first run down a concourse to a designated point. From there they hop forward and then do their final jump. If any part of the technique is done incorrectly then the jump is disqualified.

The triple jump has quite a long history in competitive sports. It has been in the modern Olympic Games since it they were introduces in 1896. The very first triple jump champion performed his jump with two hops then the final leap. In 1996 the triple jump was added officially as an event for women at the Atlanta summer games. The event was already included for women in several other international competitions.

The triple jump may look quite easy to perform but the moves are very complicated. A jumper needs to have speed, rhythm, power and lots of resilience. Many of the worlds top triple jumpers are said to have lots of natural ability. However, those that lack this natural ability can still develop their skills to a great extent.

Training for the triple jump is quite complex. Sprint training combines with free weights and plyometric drills are often needed to develop the body. Intense drive and discipline are also needed if the triple jumper is to take the sport a great distance.

Finding training for the triple jump shouldn’t be too difficult. The sport is allowed by most high schools and colleges across the country. If the athlete is very serious, individual coaching is always a possibility. Currently the triple jump record is help by Jonathan Edwards of the UK. His jump of 18.29 meters was set in Gothenburg Sweden on August 7th 1995. Kenny Harrison of the United States has come the closest in beating Edwards with a jump of 18.09 meters set at the Summer Olympics in Atlanta. The women’s triple jump record is currently help by Inessa Kravents of the Urkraine with a jump of 15.50 meters.

The triple jump is a highly complex and skilled event. It has a long history in competitive sports being at the very first modern Olympics. It is believed that triple jumpers have natural ability but those that lack this should not be deterred from trying. The training and determination could pay off one day natural ability or not.