The biomechanics of the triple jump: a review

The purpose of this paper is to review the published opinions of coaches and the findings of scientists concerning the techniques used in the triple jump, and to identify promising avenues for future research on the subject. A model is developed to identify those factors that have a causal role in determining the official distance of a triple jump. This model is then used as a basis for the subsequent review. The review itself considers each of the biomechanical factors identified in the model, some additional factors reported in the literature, and selected characteristics of triple jumping techniques. It is concluded that research on triple jump techniques has been sparse and has had little impact on practice. Identification of the individual attributes that determine the optimum ratio of the phase distances for a given athlete, the loads to which the supporting legs are subjected and the control of balance during a triple jump are seen as challenging and potentially useful topics of future research.