Pole Vaulting News & Updates
Welcome to your go‑to spot for everything pole vaulting. Whether you’re a fan tracking the latest records or an athlete looking for practical advice, we’ve got short, clear updates that keep you in the loop.
Top Performances This Week
This week saw a handful of standout jumps across the continent. In Nairobi, 22‑year‑old Amina Yusuf cleared 4.45 m, setting a new national record for Kenya and sparking buzz about her chance at the World Championships.
Over in South Africa, veteran jumper Thabo Mthembu posted a solid 5.10 m at the Durban meet. It wasn’t his personal best, but it kept him inside the top‑five world rankings and showed he still has speed on the runway.
Meanwhile, the under‑23 circuit in Ghana featured an exciting duel between two rising stars. Both cleared 4.30 m, pushing each other higher with every attempt. The competition ended in a photo finish that left fans chanting for more.
Tips to Improve Your Vault
If you’re looking to add a few centimeters to your clearance, start with the basics: run‑up speed, pole grip, and take‑off timing. A quick drill is the “short approach” drill – run only half the usual distance, plant the pole early, and focus on explosive leg drive.
Another easy change is checking your pole flex rating. Using a pole that’s too stiff can kill your speed; a slightly softer pole lets you bend more and release higher. Ask a coach to measure your weight and speed, then match it to the right flex.
Don’t forget core work. A strong core stabilises your swing and helps you keep the bar level on the way down. Simple planks, side‑planks, and hanging leg raises three times a week can make a noticeable difference.
Lastly, mental preparation matters. Visualise each phase of the vault before stepping onto the runway – from the sprint to the plant, swing, and over‑the‑bar moment. Athletes who picture success often perform better under pressure.
That’s the quick rundown for today. Keep checking this page for fresh race results, athlete interviews, and more hands‑on advice that you can try in your next training session.
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