A repeatable approach is built around three measured points: the start mark, the mid-mark, and the takeoff. This calculator estimates all three from your height, stride count, and level. Stride length is modeled with research-backed acceleration: shorter early strides, full length mid-approach, and a slightly shorter penultimate-to-last ratio (0.90-0.95) consistent with elite biomechanical data.
The first 4 strides accelerate from ~62% to ~92% of full-sprint stride length. Mid-approach strides are at 95-100%. The penultimate is the longest (1.00x), and the last step is shorter and quicker (0.93x), the ratio of last to penultimate runs 0.90-0.95 in elite vaulters per Schade et al.'s 2022 World-Class kinematics study. The calculator uses this profile to estimate total approach length, not a flat strides x stride length.
The mid-mark is the takeoff foot's position six strides out from takeoff. Coaches use it to assess approach quality: if mid-mark drifts but the start mark didn't change, the early strides are off; if mid-mark is consistent but takeoff drifts, the back end is the problem. SimpliFaster's mid-mark coverage is the canonical reference.
The horizontal distance from the box to the takeoff foot grows with grip height (and therefore level). HS developing vaulters take off ~7 ft from the box; elite men, ~11-13 ft. The model picks 7-11.5 ft by level. Verify with video: at takeoff, the takeoff foot should be directly under the top hand (the "plumb takeoff" of the Petrov method).
The calculator gives you a starting number. AI form check verifies whether your form is actually matching that number on the runway. Upload a clip from practice, and the AI tells you whether your takeoff velocity, grip height, and approach are landing where the calculator said they should.
Frequently asked questions about how this calculator works and the methodology behind it.
Primary sources behind the numbers and methods on this page.
A directory of every pole vault page on the site, from broad analysis tools to specific phase deep-dives. Each entry points to a focused write-up.
Run the numbers, then run the rep. AI form check tells you whether your form is matching the math, frame by frame.
