First strides are straight
The first 4-6 strides of the approach run straight at the bar. The straight section builds speed; the curve adds direction.
The J-curve is the shape of a modern high jump approach. Straight first, curving in for the last 3-5 strides. The curve generates the lean that converts to vertical force at takeoff. Here's how to build a clean J-curve.
The first 4-6 strides of the approach run straight at the bar. The straight section builds speed; the curve adds direction.
The last 3-5 strides curve inward toward the bar, generating centripetal lean. Approach radius is typically 8-10 meters, smaller curves for shorter approaches.
Body lean inward grows through the curve, peaking at the takeoff. That lean converts to vertical force at the takeoff, the curved approach is what makes the flop work.
AI traces your approach shape, measures the curve radius and lean angle. You see whether the J-curve is consistent across attempts, the foundation of a repeatable jump.
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