Hello young readers! Today, we’re going to dive into the exhilarating world of long jump in track and field. Long jump is an event that requires strength, speed, and agility, and it’s amazing to watch athletes soar through the air like graceful birds. In this article, we’ll explore the rules of long jump and uncover the secrets behind this fascinating sport!
So, what exactly is long jump? Well, picture a gigantic sand pit or a beach where competitors have to jump as far as they can. The goal is to make a single jump that propels you the farthest distance possible. It’s like trying to fly through the air to reach the distant horizon!
Now, let’s talk about the rules of long jump. The first thing you need to know is that before the jump, athletes need to take a running start, like a cheetah on the hunt. This is called the “approach run.” They have a specific area, called the run-up, where they must start from. This run-up is usually around 30 to 45 meters long.
As the athlete sprints down the run-up, they must stay within two white lines called the “takeoff board lines.” These lines help judges determine if the jump is valid or not. Just like in other sports, it’s important to follow the rules to ensure a fair competition!
Now comes the exciting part — the actual jump! The athlete has to take off from one foot only behind the takeoff board. This foot is called the “takeoff foot,” and it can be either left or right depending on the athlete’s preference. It’s like choosing your favorite flavor of ice cream!
When the athlete jumps, they must extend their legs in front of them, reaching for the farthest point possible in the sand pit. This is known as the “landing.” Once they land, they must not fall back into the sand behind them; instead, they need to maintain their balance and stay in the landing area.
After the jump, the distance is measured from the takeoff board to the part of the athlete’s body that lands first. This measurement is called the “mark.” The athletes with the longest marks are the winners, as they’ve achieved the greatest distance from their jump.
So, my young friends, that’s the essence of long jump! It’s a thrilling event that showcases the power and grace of athletes as they fly through the air. Now you know the rules, imagine yourself leaping towards the sky and landing with a mighty thud. One day, who knows, you might become the next long jump superstar!