Pole vault
Kinematic analysis of the movements of a pole vaulter
Author:
Title 4
Learning objectives :
This activity allows students to analyze the complex kinematics of a pole vault and the associated energy transfers. It develops the ability to break down a sporting movement into distinct phases and to understand biomechanical principles.
Concepts covered
Energy transfers; Sports cinematics; Elasticity; Elastic potential energy; Biomechanics
What students will do :
The student uses the FizziQ kinematic analysis module to study in detail the successive phases of a pole vault. By pointing out the positions of the athlete throughout the movement and calculating the corresponding speeds and energies, the student identifies the key moments of the jump (stop turning release) and analyzes the energy transformations between the athlete and the pole.
What is required :
Smartphone or tablet with the FizziQ application; 'Pole vault' video available in the FizziQ library; FizziQ experience notebook
Scientific background :
The pole vault is one of the most complex sports movements, combining running, conversion of kinetic energy into elastic, and gymnastic movement. The kinematic analysis reveals several distinct phases: 1) The run-up: the athlete accumulates horizontal kinetic energy (Ec = ½mv²); 2) The stop: moment when the pole is planted in the stop, initiating the transfer of energy from the athlete to the pole; 3) Bending: the pole bends, converting kinetic energy into elastic potential energy (Epe = ½kx², where k is the elastic constant and x is the deformation); 4) Turning: the athlete pivots from horizontal to vertical position; 5) Relaxation: the pole restores the stored elastic energy; 6) Straightening: the athlete extends his body to maximize height; 7) Letting go: moment when the athlete abandons the pole; 8) The apogee: highest point of the trajectory. On the horizontal speed graph (Vx), the stop appears as a sudden deceleration, and releasing it as a stabilization of the speed at a low value. On the vertical speed (Vy) graph, the apogee corresponds to the moment when Vy = 0. The energy balance shows that the final mechanical energy (at the moment of crossing) is generally greater than the initial energy (end of momentum). This “additional energy” comes from the athlete’s muscular work during the jump, particularly when turning and recovering. Typically, a 70 kg elite jumper running at 9 m/s has an initial kinetic energy of around 2800 J. The pole can store up to 1500-2000 J, and the athlete can add 400-600 J through muscular work. The technical complexity of this movement explains why this discipline requires years of specific training.