The relationship between selected biomechanical and technical factors and success criteria in long jump take-off performed by elite athletes

Take-off is the critical phase of the long jump event. The aim of this study was to explore the relationships between different variables and success in take-off. 37 trials performed by 8 long jumper, participants in fourth indoor Asian senior athletics championships held in Tehran, with personal best average of 7.68±0.28 meter were recorded at 300 Hz. Five speed-related, five technical and four strength-related variables as well as an anthropometric variable were measured using motion analysis software. More gain in vertical velocity and less loss of horizontal velocity are considered as two criteria of take-off success and their relationships with other variables were determined through correlation and regression analysis. Significant level of 0.05 was set. Some variables of all four groups were significantly correlated with success criteria. These variables along with some others were entered in regression equations. The results emphasized on dominant role of the technique and approach velocity and represented the effect of anthropometric characteristics on success in takeoff. Furthermore eccentric strength of knee extensors was shown as the main strength factor in this performance.