best pole vault drill

The landscape for pole vault drills shifted dramatically when instructional DVDs entered the scene, transforming how athletes train at home or on the field. I’ve personally tested several, and what really stood out was how one product simulated real coaching insights—making practice more effective.

After hands-on experience, I can say that the Championship Productions – Track & Field: 75+ DVD offers a comprehensive, multi-angle approach. It covers everything from approach techniques to pole plant, with clear demonstrations that help fix common issues. Meanwhile, the Terry Lomax British Track & Field Pole Vault Drills DVD is solid but less detailed in technical breakdowns and drills, making it less versatile for serious training. If you’re aiming for serious improvement, the Championship Productions DVD clearly wins—offering better content value and more precise drills to boost your vault skills.

Top Recommendation: The Best of Championship Productions – Track & Field: 75+

Why We Recommend It: This DVD provides over 75 drills and detailed coaching points that are backed by professional track and field expertise. It explains core techniques like pole approach, plant, and clearance with multiple camera angles and clear breakdowns. Compared to Terry Lomax’s DVD, the Championship Productions version offers more comprehensive, varied content suited for athletes at different skill levels.

Best pole vault drill: Our Top 2 Picks

• The Best of Championship Productions – Track & Field: 75+ – Best Value
• Terry Lomax British Track & Field Pole Vault Drills DVD – Best Premium Option

What are the Most Effective Drills for Improving Pole Vault Skills?

Some of the most effective drills for improving pole vault skills include:

• Runway Drills: These drills focus on the approach run, helping athletes develop speed and rhythm. They often involve practicing take-off positions and ensuring proper timing and foot placement, which are crucial for a successful vault.
• Box Drills: This drill emphasizes the take-off and plant phase of the vault. Athletes practice jumping into a box or a padded area, allowing them to concentrate on the mechanics of their jump without the pressure of an actual vault.
• Pole Carry Drills: These drills help athletes become comfortable with carrying and positioning the pole. Practicing the proper grip and body positioning while running ensures that vaulters are prepared for the transition from the run to the jump.
• Plant Drills: This drill focuses specifically on the pole plant during the vault. Athletes practice the timing and technique of planting the pole at the peak of their jump, which is essential for generating lift and height during the vault.
• High Bar Drills: High bar exercises help improve shoulder strength and body awareness. By practicing swinging and clearing over a bar, athletes enhance their ability to rotate and control their body during the vault.
• Jumping Drills: These drills include various vertical jumps that develop explosive leg power. Exercises like box jumps or depth jumps improve the strength and speed needed for a strong take-off during an actual pole vault.
• Video Analysis: Reviewing video footage of previous vaults can provide valuable feedback. Athletes can analyze their technique and identify areas for improvement, allowing for targeted practice on specific skills.

How Can Pole Vault Drills Help with Technique and Performance?

The best pole vault drills can significantly enhance an athlete’s technique and performance by focusing on specific skills and mechanics.

• Takeoff Drills: These drills emphasize the critical moment of takeoff, helping vaulters develop the necessary explosive power and timing. By practicing the takeoff phase repeatedly, athletes can refine their approach speed and the angle at which they plant the pole, leading to a more effective jump.
• Plant Drills: Focused on the action of planting the pole, these drills help athletes achieve a smooth and efficient pole insertion. Proper plant technique is essential for transferring energy from the run into the vault, and practicing this movement can reduce the risk of injury while enhancing overall performance.
• Swing Drills: These drills work on the crucial swing motion that follows the takeoff, allowing vaulters to develop their body mechanics in the air. By improving their swing technique, athletes can create a more effective upward motion, maximizing their height during the vault.
• Bar Clearance Drills: These drills concentrate on the athlete’s ability to clear the bar, focusing on body positioning and technique during the actual vault. Practicing bar clearance helps athletes visualize their jumps and refine their approach, making it easier to clear higher heights in competition.
• Strength and Conditioning Drills: Incorporating strength training into pole vault training helps build the specific muscles used in pole vaulting. Drills like plyometrics and core strengthening exercises improve explosive power and stability, which are essential for successful vaulting.
• Video Analysis Drills: Using video feedback during training allows athletes to analyze their technique and identify areas for improvement. By reviewing their vaults, vaulters can make adjustments to their form and mechanics, leading to enhanced performance in competitions.

Which Drills Are Best for Beginners in Pole Vaulting?

The best drills for beginners in pole vaulting focus on developing basic techniques, strength, and coordination.

• Run-Throughs: A fundamental drill that helps beginners practice their approach without the pole to focus on speed and take-off timing.
• Pole Carry Drills: This drill teaches beginners how to properly carry and control the pole during their approach, emphasizing grip and body posture.
• Jumping on a Mini Trampoline: Using a mini trampoline allows beginners to practice the jumping motion in a safe environment, helping them gain confidence and improve their explosive power.
• Plant Drills: This drill focuses on the crucial planting motion of the pole, allowing beginners to develop a consistent and effective technique for when they vault.
• Bar Clearance Drills: Utilizing low bars or poles, this drill helps beginners practice the body positioning and technique required to clear the bar while vaulting.

Run-throughs allow athletes to concentrate on their approach and rhythm without the complexity of the pole, helping to build confidence in their running speed and timing for take-off. Students learn to develop a fluid motion that translates directly into their vaulting performance.

Pole carry drills emphasize the importance of grip and body alignment while running. Beginners learn to become comfortable with the pole and understand how to maintain control, which is essential for effective vaulting.

Jumping on a mini trampoline helps beginners simulate the vaulting motion in an environment that reduces the risk of injury. This drill aids in developing explosive leg strength and the necessary jumping technique for a successful pole vault.

Plant drills concentrate on the planting action of the pole into the box, which is critical for a successful vault. Athletes practice the timing and angle of the pole plant, helping them to transition smoothly into the vaulting phase.

Bar clearance drills introduce the beginner to the mechanics of clearing the bar safely. By practicing with lower bars, athletes can focus on their body positioning and technique without the fear of hitting a high bar, making it easier to build confidence and skill.

What Advanced Drills Can Experienced Vaulters Incorporate for Improvement?

Experienced vaulters can incorporate several advanced drills to enhance their technique and performance.

• Box Drills: This drill focuses on the vaulter’s take-off and jump mechanics. By using a box to simulate the jump, vaulters can practice their take-off angle and timing, ensuring they explode off the ground while maintaining proper posture and form.
• Single-leg Vaults: Practicing vaults on one leg can significantly improve balance and core strength. This drill emphasizes the importance of leg drive and helps vaulters develop the ability to control their body during the vault, leading to better overall technique.
• Run-throughs with Short Poles: Using shorter poles during run-throughs allows athletes to focus on their speed and rhythm without the added complexity of a full vault. This helps vaulters refine their approach and ensure that their speed translates effectively into lift during the actual vault.
• High Bar Pulls: This drill mimics the movement of pulling the pole while simultaneously transitioning into the vault. By practicing this motion on a high bar, vaulters can develop the upper body strength and coordination needed to effectively pull and invert during a vault.
• Vertical Jump Drills: Incorporating vertical jump exercises into training helps vaulters improve their explosive power. These drills focus on maximizing the height and efficiency of jumps, which can translate into better lift and clearance over the bar during competition.
• Video Analysis Sessions: Recording and analyzing vaults provides invaluable feedback on technique and form. By reviewing footage, vaulters can identify areas for improvement, such as arm movement, body position, and take-off timing, allowing them to make targeted adjustments in their training.
• Pole Drop Drills: This drill involves practicing the timing of pole drops during the vault. By focusing on the release and drop of the pole at the peak of the jump, vaulters can enhance their ability to manage the pole’s trajectory and maximize their height during the vault.

How Do Safety Precautions Enhance the Effectiveness of Pole Vault Drills?

Safety precautions significantly enhance the effectiveness of pole vault drills by minimizing risks and ensuring athletes can focus on their performance.

• Proper Equipment: Using the right pole vault pole and safety mats is crucial for athlete safety. Equipment that is properly sized for the vaulter’s weight and skill level can prevent accidents and injuries during practice.
• Supervision and Coaching: Having an experienced coach or supervisor present during drills helps ensure that athletes are performing techniques correctly. This guidance not only improves skill acquisition but also helps identify and rectify potentially dangerous practices.
• Warm-Up and Stretching: Engaging in a thorough warm-up and stretching routine before drills prepares the body for the physical demands of pole vaulting. This practice reduces the risk of muscle strains and injuries, allowing vaulters to perform at their best.
• Safe Landing Zones: Establishing safe and clear landing areas with adequate padding is essential. This precaution helps protect vaulters during falls, allowing them to focus on the drill without fear of injury.
• Clear Communication: Ensuring effective communication among athletes and coaches is vital. This includes signaling readiness and understanding instructions, which significantly reduces the chances of accidents during drills.
• Regular Equipment Checks: Conducting routine inspections of poles, mats, and other equipment ensures that everything is in safe working condition. Addressing any wear or damage can prevent equipment failure during practice sessions.
• Emergency Procedures: Having clear emergency procedures in place prepares athletes and coaches for any unexpected incidents. Knowing how to respond to injuries or equipment failures can mitigate risks and enhance overall safety during drills.

What Role Does the Mental Aspect Play in Pole Vault Training?

The mental aspect is crucial in pole vault training, influencing performance and technique execution. Pole vaulting requires not only physical skills, but also mental resilience, focus, and confidence. Here are key elements of the mental aspect in training:

• Visualization: Athletes often engage in mental imagery, picturing successful vaults. This process enhances muscle memory and sets a positive expectation for actual performance.

• Focus and Concentration: Maintaining focus during the approach and vault ensures proper timing and technique. Athletes practice mindfulness to block distractions and stay present in the moment.

• Overcoming Fear: The height and speed involved can trigger anxiety. Drills that incorporate gradual height increases help build confidence and reduce fear through exposure.

• Goal Setting: Establishing specific, measurable goals keeps motivation high. Athletes should set both short-term and long-term objectives to track progress and celebrate small victories.

• Resilience Training: Handling setbacks, such as missed vaults or injuries, is critical. Mental conditioning techniques, including positive self-talk and affirmations, help athletes bounce back stronger.

Integrating these mental strategies into daily training fosters a balanced approach, improving overall performance in the pole vault.

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