Have you ever wondered why one jump can be declared valid while another is immediately disqualified, even though they both appear to be the same distance? This is actually related to the long jump rules, which govern every phase of an athlete's movement and technique on the field.
This article will cover the long jump rules in a comprehensive and relaxed manner. You'll understand everything from the basic concepts and technical rules to the scoring system in official competitions, so you can jump correctly and confidently.
What is Long Jump?
The long jump is a classic athletics event that requires athletes to jump as far as possible from a take-off point into a sand pit. This event relies on a combination of starting speed, leg strength, coordination, and proper technique to achieve a maximum jump that is legal.
The main goal of the long jump is actually simple: to achieve the longest legal jump distance. However, despite its simplicity, the long jump has a clear movement structure and cannot be performed haphazardly without understanding the applicable long jump rules.
In the long jump, there are several key interrelated elements: the takeoff run, the takeoff board, the airborne phase, and the landing in the sandpit. Each phase has its own rules that must be followed for the jump to be officially recognized.
Understanding these elements helps athletes develop technique and strategy before jumping. This ensures that their jumps are not only long but also legal according to competition standards.
Also read: Long Jump: History, Benefits and Techniques for Beginners
Long Jump Rules: Basic Rules
1. Size and Shape of the Running Platform
The runway, or starting track, serves as an area for building speed before the takeoff. According to long jump regulations, this track must be at least 40 meters long, or adjusted to suit the athlete's needs.
The track surface must be flat, non-slip, and safe to allow athletes to run at a steady pace. If the track is potholed or too slippery, athlete performance will be impaired and the risk of injury will increase.
The track must also be wide enough for a single, unobstructed running path. This rule ensures that every athlete has a fair opportunity to maximize their start.
2. Size of Reject Board and Sand Pit
The take-off board is the official boundary where the feet take their final push before taking off. According to long jump regulations, this board must be securely attached, level with the track surface, and clearly visible.
A sandpit or sand pit serves as a landing area. It should be wide and long enough, with loose sand that should be leveled regularly for a safe landing.
The condition of the sand significantly affects the measurement results. Sand that is too hard or uneven can cause injury and affect the accuracy of the jump distance.
3. How to Make a Legitimate Rejection
The long jump must be pushed off with one foot. If an athlete pushes off with both feet at once, the jump is automatically disqualified.
The foot position when pushing off must also be directly on the takeoff board, without crossing the line. Stepping even slightly forward of the board can be enough to invalidate the jump, and this often happens to beginners.
By understanding the rules of legal push-off, you can focus more on the timing of your steps and avoid technical errors that can be detrimental to your race results.
Also read: Step-by-Step Guide to Mastering Basic Long Jump Techniques
Long Jump Rules: Scoring and Measurement
1. How to Measure Jump Distance
The long jump distance is measured from the closest point where the athlete's body landed in the sandpit to the edge of the take-off board. This point serves as the official reference point, not the furthest point from the body, to ensure fair and consistent results.
Competition officials draw straight lines using special measuring tools to ensure objective measurements. The distances obtained are usually rounded down to meet official standards, ensuring that every athlete is judged by the same standard.
2. Rejection and Landing Rules
The takeoff and landing are crucial phases that determine whether a jump is valid. After a valid single-leg takeoff, the athlete must land completely in the sandpit without leaving the area.
The position of the body upon landing also affects the measurement results. If the hand or other body part falls further back, that point will be measured even if the foot lands further forward, so proper landing technique is essential.
3. Mistakes That Make a Jump Invalid
Several common mistakes often make a jump invalid, such as stepping on the take-off line, pushing off with two feet, or landing outside the sandpit.
Small mistakes like losing your balance after landing can also be detrimental to your jump distance. By understanding this, you can be more careful and avoid the same mistakes during training and competitions.
Also read: Triple Jump: History, Rules, and Tips for Long Jumping
Long Jump Rules: Competition
1. Number of Jump Opportunities
In long jump competitions, each competitor typically gets multiple jumps, depending on the level of competition and the number of participants. Typically, each athlete gets three initial jumps, with the best results advancing to the next round.
This rule emphasizes the importance of consistent performance. One good jump sometimes isn't enough if you're inconsistent on other occasions, so every opportunity must be maximized.
2. Order of Participants and Turns to Jump
The order of participants is usually determined by drawing lots or by technical regulations set by the competition committee. All athletes must follow the assigned sequence to ensure the race remains orderly and fair.
If an athlete misses their turn without a valid reason, the opportunity will be forfeited. Focus and mental preparedness are crucial to avoid missing a turn and maintain the rhythm of the competition.
3. Assessment Points and Criteria
Long jump scoring is based on the longest valid jump distance, not a points system. The final result is determined by each competitor's best valid jump.
In the event of a tie for distance, the judges will compare the next best jumps to determine ranking. This process follows established long jump regulations to ensure objective and fair judging.
Improve Your Long Jump Performance with Equipment from SVRG
Understanding the long jump rules will help you perform more confidently, safely, and consistently during training and competitions. All the rules, from the start to the scoring, are interconnected to create a fair and high-quality competition.
Long jump training will be much more effective when you use top-of-the-line equipment from SVRG, such as resistance bands , plyo boxes , or speed ladders . These tools help improve power, flexibility, and stability during long jump training.
If you want your long jump training to feel more optimal and serious, discover the collection of sports equipment from SVRG and choose the gear that best suits your training style, because a good long jump always starts with the right preparation.
