Vault Performance Research Articles

RELATIONSHIP OF ABSOLUTE AND RELATIVE LOWER EXTREMITIES STRENGTH AND THE EFFICIENCY OF VAULT PERFORMANCE IN GYMNASTICS

The aim of this research was to examine the relationship between absolute and relative lower extremity strength and the efficiency of gymnastics vault performance. Thirty healthy, physically active male students (age: 20.84 ± 0.99 years; height: 179.46 ± 5.91 cm; body weight: 73.88 ± 6.43 kg) from the Faculty of Sports and Physical Education participated in the study. Absolute lower extremity strength was assessed by measuring the maximum load lifted (in kg) during a back squat (1RM). Relative lower extremity strength was calculated by dividing the estimated 1RM back squat by the participant's body weight (1RM/BW). Two types of vaults—the squat through (ST) and the front handspring (FHS)—were used to evaluate vault performance efficiency. Three criterion variables were applied: (d1) distance from the springboard in front of the vault, (d2) distance of landing beyond the vault, (d1 - d2) the difference between d1 and d2, and (pt) overall vault performance rating. The results showed statistically significant and strong correlations between both absolute and relative lower extremity strength and the variables measuring vault performance efficiency. The strongest correlations were observed for (d1), followed by (d2), (pt), and (d1 - d2). These findings can serve as guidelines for developing both absolute and relative lower extremity strength, which may lead to improved performance in gymnastics vaults.

KINEMATIC CHARACTERISTICS OF THE APPROACH RUN ON HANDSPRING VAULT BY HIGH LEVEL MALE GYMNASTS HIGH LEVEL MALE GYMNASTS

The approach run is a fundamental precondition for successful vault performance, as it enables the gymnast to develop maximum controlled horizontal velocity. The purpose of this study was to investigate the length, frequency, and velocity of steps during the run-up phase (approach run) in the execution of the handspring vault on the vaulting table. Nine high-level male artistic gymnasts, who performed the handspring vault under training conditions, volunteered to participate in the study. Five video cameras—four stationary and one scanning—were used to record the run-up phase, the hurdle step, and the take-off from the springboard. The gymnasts performed six trials of the handspring vault with a three-minute rest between each trial. Results showed that the final step was shorter than the penultimate step, and the penultimate step was longer than the preceding step. Additionally, the gymnasts demonstrated a gradual increase in their run-up velocity, a key requirement for a successful jump, up to the penultimate step. The average step frequency among gymnasts ranged from 3.20 to 4.88 steps per second, while the average step velocity across the six attempts was between 4.03 and 7.37 m/sec. Finally, a gradual increase in the gymnast’s velocity was observed up until the last step, with the final step being shorter than the penultimate step and the penultimate step being longer than the one before it.

Mitigating against relative age effects in youth Track & Field: Validating corrective adjustment procedures across multiple events

ObjectivesWith the aim to better identify talented Track & Field performance development, this study estimated the relationships between chronological (decimal) age with 60-m sprint, high jump, triple jump, and pole vault performance. Then, to mitigate against expected Relative Age Effects (RAEs), Corrective Adjustment Procedures (CAPs) were applied to an independent sample. DesignMixed-longitudinal design examining public data between 2005 and 2019. MethodsThe performances of 5339 Italian sprinters and jumpers (53.1 %) spanning 11.01–17.99 years of age were examined, with trendlines between chronological age and performance established. Related to an independent sample (N = 40,306; female 45.5 %), trendlines were then utilised to apply CAPs and adjust individual performance. Considering raw and adjusted performance data, RAE distributions were examined for the top 25 % and 10 % performers. ResultsFor all male and female events, quadratic models best summarised the relationships between chronological age and performance (R2 = 0.74–0.89). When examining independent athletes in similar event, RAEs were more pronounced in males (Cramer's V = 0.35–0.14) than females (Cramer's V = 0.29–0.07). For both sexes, RAE magnitude decreased with age and increased according to performance level (i.e., Top25%–Top10%). However, following CAP applications, RAEs were reduced or removed within annual age groups and performance levels. ConclusionsWith RAEs prevalent across Italian youth Track & Field events, findings validate CAPs as a strategy to account for the influence of relative age differences on athletic performance. CAPs help establish a more equitable strategy for performance evaluation and could help improve the efficacy of long-term athlete development programming.

Energy conversion in pole vaulting using finite element analysis

The article examines pole vaulting as a demanding track and field discipline, where athletes use a flexible pole to clear a high bar. The study explores the research challeng-es associated with this discipline, including the impact of pole material, the physical capabilities of the vaulter, and the vaulting technique on performance. The paper pre-sents a new Finite Element Analysis in ANSYS, focusing on energy conversion in the pole-vaulter interaction. Simulation results highlight the influence of pole stiffness and length for jump height, as well as the impact of synchronization between pole and pole positions on performance. Finally, the article highlights that pole vault performance is intrinsically linked to the pole vaulter's specific movement and ability to optimize interac-tion with the pole. This deeper understanding can help improve individual performance in this demanding athletics discipline.

High-intensity interval training on unstable vs stable surfaces: effects on explosive strength, balance, agility, and Tsukahara vault performance in gymnastics

Background and Study Aim. This study compares the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on unstable and stable surfaces on explosive strength, balance, agility, and Tsukahara vault performance in gymnastics. Material and Methods. A nonrandomized trial study was conducted on twenty-seven well-trained male vault players who were assigned into 3 equal groups, a HIIT unstable group (UG), a HIIT stable group (SG), and the control group (CG). The training period for the subjects lasted eight weeks, with 3 sessions each week. All of the aforementioned variables were assessed both before and after the training period. Results. The main findings indicate that both UG and SG showed greater improvement than the CG on explosive strength, balance, agility, and Tsukahara vault performance in gymnastics (ES= 0.52 to 0.68, P<0.05). In addition, there were significant differences between the UG and SG in explosive strength, balance and Tsukahara vault performance (P<0.05) favoring UG, while no significant differences between UG and SG in agility. However, the UG as compared to the SG in agility had only limited additional effects. The UG and SG significantly increased all tests from pre- to post-test (ES= 1.10 to 4.78, 0.98 to 3.53), respectively (P<0.05). The CG significantly increased the explosive strength and Tsukahara vault performance tests from pre- to post-test ((ES= 0.77 to 0.78, P <0.05), while there were no significant differences in the balance and agility tests (P > 0.05). Conclusions. Accordingly, HIIT with unstable surfaces can be used as an alternative method to improve explosive strength and balance. Also, it can be used alongside stable surface exercises when developing agility.

EFFECTS OF 12-WEEK ISOKINETIC TRAINING ON KNEE STABILIZERS STRENGTH AND THE EFFICIENCY OF THE PERFORMANCE OF GYMNASTICS VAULTS

Abstract
 The aim of the research was to examine the effects of isokinetic training on knee stabilizer strength, and whether this increases the efficiency of performing basic gymnastics vaults. A total of 60 respondents, students of the Faculty of Sports and Physical Education (average age 19.7±1.5 years, weight 75.3±2.9 kg, height 179.8±6.7 cm) were included. The subjects were divided into two groups, experimental (EG) (n=30) and control (CG) (n=30). As part of the 12-week program, the experimental group (EG) in addition to exercises within the regular classes at the university had an additional concentric isokinetic training 3 times a week on the Biodex System 3 dynamometer, while the control group (CG) only had exercises within the regular classes at the university. The results showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) between (EG) and (CG), both, in increasing the strength of the knee stabilizers and in the performance of gymnastics vaults, and the strength of the knee extensors and flexors in favor of (EG). It can be concluded that the additional isokinetic training resulted in a greater increase in strength, but also a better performance of gymnastics vaults.

An examination of kinematic parameters related to pole vault performance

ABSTRACT Although various studies have examined factors associated with pole vault performance, only a few have identified a linear relationship between these factors and performance. This study aimed to identify the kinematics variables correlating with the maximum centre of gravity (CG) height. This cross-sectional study included 16 male pole vaulters and recorded their performance using four high-speed cameras at 240 Hz. The vaulters cleared the bungee bars that were set at 90% of their personal best record. The variables during pole vaulting from the touchdown of the penultimate step on the approach to the peak height of the CG were calculated. Pearson’s correlation analysis and Spearman’s rank correlation were used to test the correlation between maximum CG height and the variables. Significant correlations were observed between the maximum CG height and the six variables (grip height, approach velocity, takeoff velocity, takeoff distance, push height, and maximum vertical velocity). Grip height showed the strongest relationship, followed by push height and takeoff velocity. Pole vaulters should aim to gain a high approach velocity and grip height to increase their mechanical energy.

Effects of earthquakes with different nature on the seismic performance of masonry vaults

Past seismic events showed that earthquakes can cause severe damages in masonry vaulted structures, which can lead to significant damage, including fatalities, and heritage and economic losses. Although seismic guidelines suggest the implementation of specific modern strengthening techniques to prevent those seismic losses, many masonry vaulted structures are unreinforced and they are one of the most vulnerable structural elements in monumental buildings, such as churches and palaces. Thus, the present paper focuses on the seismic performance of a numerical model, which simulates an experimental reduced-scale dry-joints vault, through the nonlinear dynamic analysis, by applying several earthquakes of different nature. The numerical model was built based on the discrete element method, where it is possible to simulate the detailed geometrical properties: the interlocking between the blocks, the cuts along the diagonals, the offset of the units and the boundary conditions. Moreover, the model was calibrated based on results obtained from shake table tests. The results of this sensitivity analysis, obtained from the different inputs, are compared in terms of damage patterns.

Effect of hemp bio composite strengthening on masonry barrel vaults damage

Masonry vaults are common structural elements of the Italian architectural heritage, significantly vulnerable to seismic loads. For this reason strengthening is often required. In the last decade, the use of traditional reinforcement techniques has been progressively replaced by Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRP) bonded at the vault extrados/intrados. However, this approach has shown drawbacks mainly associated to the polymeric nature of matrix and physical compatibility between the matrix and the masonry support. Consequently, FRP strengthening evolved to innovative composite materials obtained by cement based matrix, i.e. Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Matrix (FRCM). Moreover, within the growing environmental sustainability issues, the scientific research is focusing on the development of biodegradable composite materials, based on vegetal fibers and natural matrices. This paper presents the results of experimental tests on two full-scale masonry vaults with the same geometry and mechanical properties: one is unreinforced and one is reinforced at the extrados by continuous bidirectional hemp ropes bonded in a layer of cocciopesto matrix (i.e. a mix of ground clay bricks and organic binder). The two models were built and tested in the 3D shaking table system of the Laboratory of Earthquake Engineering and Dynamic Analysis (LEDA) at Enna Kore University. Each vault was subjected to seismic loads and dynamic identification tests: the seismic load was given with increasing amplitude at the base of the two models while the dynamic identification tests were carried out after each seismic sequence in order to evaluate the variation of the dynamic properties, testifying structural damage. The strengthening effectiveness was assessed by comparing the damages detected on the unreinforced and reinforced masonry vaults. Results showed that the proposed bio composite strengthening material is effective for improving the seismic performance of masonry vaults.

Factor analysis of the biomechanical parameters of pole vault run-up and takeoff: exploring sports performance

ABSTRACT This study aimed to explore a parameter system and build a linear prediction model to effectively and comprehensively evaluate pole vault performance. The Qualisys motion capture system (200 Hz) and three Kistler force platforms (2000 Hz) were used to collect the athletes’ kinematics and ground reaction force data of run-up and takeoff. Finally, 26 biomechanical parameters of 30 successful vaults of eight athletes were analysed by factor analysis, and linear regression analysis was conducted on the extracted factors. Three factors were extracted by factor analysis: F1, F2, and F3. The mean maximum COM height of the 30 vaults was 4.974 m. The score of F2 and F1 increased by 1, and the maximum COM height increased by 0.131 m and 0.112 m, respectively. The F3 did not participate in the prediction of performance. For the training of coaches and athletes, athletes of a higher stature need to expend more effort to achieve a higher training level. Furthermore, improving the speed, mechanical energy, and horizontal propulsion GRF of run-up and takeoff, as well as optimising the force generation strategy of the three lower limb joints in the takeoff support phase, help to achieve a good pole vault performance.

Effects of a 10-Month Neuromuscular Training Program on Strength, Power, Speed, and Vault Performance in Young Female Gymnasts.

This study aimed to evaluate a 10-month neuromuscular training (NMT) intervention on isometric and dynamic kinetics, standing long jump (SLJ) distance, speed, and sport-specific performance. Forty-three prepubertal female gymnasts were allocated into either a gymnastics + NMT (gNMT; n = 16), gymnastics only (GYM, n = 15), or maturity-matched control (CON; n = 12) group. The gNMT followed a 10-month, twice-weekly NMT program that targeted movement competency, strength, power, and speed. Vaulting vertical take-off velocity, speed, SLJ distance, and kinetics during an isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP), countermovement jump (CMJ), and drop jump (DJ) were measured at baseline and thereafter at 4, 7, and 10 months. Within-group differences were calculated using 3 × 4 repeated-measures ANCOVA. Interaction effects were observed for SLJ distance and various IMTP, DJ, and vaulting variables. The gNMT showed significant improvements in IMTP absolute force and SLJ distance after 4 months and each subsequent testing session. IMTP relative force and various CMJ and DJ kinetics significantly improved in the gNMT from 7 months. Significant gains in speed and vaulting take-off velocity occurred after 10 months. The GYM group achieved some significant improvements in CMJ impulse, absolute isometric strength, and DJ spring-like behavior, whereas the CON group did not experience any changes. The addition of NMT to gymnastics training improved various isometric and dynamic kinetics, SLJ distance, speed, and vaulting take-off velocity in the gNMT, changes that were not equally evidenced for GYM or CON. The threshold for most of the training-induced adaptations observed in IMTP relative force, CMJ and DJ kinetics, sprint speed, and vaulting were achieved after 7 months, emphasizing the efficacy of long-term NMT programs for young gymnasts.

Energy Transformation on Vault in Elite Artistic Gymnastics: Comparisons between Simple and Difficult Tsukahara and Yurchenko Vaults

Performance on vault in artistic gymnastics depends on the difficulty and the execution quality of the performed vault. However, differences of kinetic energy between simple and difficult vaults remain elusive. Therefore, in this study, 48 Tsukahara and Yurchenko vaults, performed by 20 top-level gymnasts, were recorded with 3D-motion capture and the flux of translational (TKE), angular kinetic (AKE), potential (PE), and total energy were calculated and compared. Results revealed that upon initial springboard contact, almost all of the kinetic energy for Tsukahara vaults is comprised of TKE, whereas Yurchenko vaults were characterized by substantially less TKE, but far greater AKE (and similar PE). During springboard contact of Tsukahara vaults, AKE is increased (+70%) and thereafter mostly preserved during push off from the table (−6%). For Yurchenko vaults, AKE is preserved during springboard contact but reduced (−30%) in exchange for PE at push off. During the second flight phase of Yurchenko vaults, total energy was 10% higher than at initial springboard contact (Tsukahara: −1%). For vaults of increasing difficulty, 5.9% more AKE is needed for each additional 180° of longitudinal-axis rotation. This knowledge may help coaches evaluate athletes’ potential and focus training on appropriate physical and/or technical aspects of the vault performance.

Multivariate regression modeling of Chinese artistic gymnastic handspring vaulting kinematic performance based on judges scores

Introduction: Vault kinematic variables have been found to be strongly correlated with vault difficulty (DV) values and judges' scores. However, the Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique Code of Points (COP) was updated after every Olympic Games rendering previous regression models inadequate. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop a prediction model for vault performance based on judges' scores. Methods: Handspring vaults (n = 70) were recorded during the Men's Artistic Gymnastic qualifying round of the 2017 China National Artistic Gymnastics Championship using a video camera placed 50 m perpendicular to the vault table. Kinematic data were coded and correlated with judges' official competition final scores (FSs). The vault samples were used to develop a mathematical model (n = 65) and to verify the scores against the predicted model (n = 5). Partial least squares regression was established using the statistical software to calibrate and cross validate the model. Results: The goodness-of-fit of a 3-factor model was utilised (R2 cal = 90.13% and R2 val = 87.30%) and a significant and strong relationship was observed between predicted Y (FS) and reference Y (FS) in both the calibration and validation models (rcal = 0.949, rval = 0.932) with Y-calibration error (RMSEC = 0.1727) and Y-prediction error (RMSEP = 0.1990). Maximum height, 2nd-flight-time and DV were the key variables against FS. Using JSPM, 40% of new samples were within the acceptable range. Conclusion: Kinematic variables and known DV seem adequate to form a JSPM that could offer coaches an alternative scientific approach to monitor vault training.

Fierljeppen: pole vaulting for distance

Pole vaulting, the aim of which is to jump over a crossbar with the help of a long flexible pole, is considered to be one of the most complicated and technically demanding motions in track and field athletics. Pole vault performance is basically influenced by the energy exchange between the vaulter and pole. It depends on the sprinting, jumping and acrobatic abilities of the athlete. Less well-known, but just as exciting and fascinating, is pole vaulting for distance. The aim in this sports event, named fierljeppen in the Frisian language, is to jump as far as possible with the help of a long pole. Athletes reach heights of 11.5 m and the record jumping distance is currently 22.21 m. In this paper, we present a simplified mathematical model of the motion of vaulter and pole based on classical mechanics. This model helps us understand the dynamics of pole vaulting for distance and optimize the athlete’s performance by looking for the optimal speed of running-up toward the pole and the optimal release angle.

The relationship between velocity utilization rate and pole vault performance

In the pole vault event, the velocity of approach is a highly vital factor. As velocity of approach improvements highly impact performance improvements. This study analysed the relationships between sprint running’s speed (SR), pole running (PR, without jump), and the pole vault approach (PVA, with real jump). Analysed too were the relationships between both the approach and performance’s respective running distance, velocity, and velocity utilization rates. Methods: Ten male pole vaulters were recruited. Measured was each 5-meter segment’s average velocity of his respective SR, PR, and PVA, along with the distance to maximum velocity. Results: The maximum average velocity of the PR’s 5m segments altogether was significantly positively correlated with pole vault (PV) performance; The maximum average velocity of the PR’s 5m segments altogether was significantly positively correlated with the last 5m PVA average velocity; The PVA velocity’s utilization rate was significantly negatively correlated with the difference between the distance to the PR’s maximum velocity and the PVA’s distance. Conclusion: The PR segment’s maximum speed capability can evaluate both a pole vaulter’s potential and pole vault-specific abilities. This study’s recruited pole vaulters’ respective approach distances were generally insufficient that resulted in a lower velocity utilization rate. Suggested is that in training, the pole vaulter could first find the distance required to reach the highest velocity upon starting from the PR test. Thus, this subsequently known distance could be applied in tandem with the pole vault’s approach to both improve the PVA’s utilization rate and reach the individual highest speed level.

Prioritizing Physical Determinants of International Elite Pole Vaulting Performance.

Gross, M, Büchler Greeley, N, and Hübner, K. Prioritizing physical determinants of international elite pole vaulting performance. J Strength Cond Res 34(1): 162-171, 2020-The pole vault is a complex track and field discipline requiring speed, strength, and efficient technique. Strength is a fundamental physical requirement, which facilitates general sprinting ability; this in turn represents the exploitable potential during the approach, where kinetic energy for the subsequent vault is generated. This study investigated the relationships between pole vault height, approach speed, sprint-speed potential, and indicators of both explosive and reactive strength in 20 international female pole vaulters. Furthermore, changes in step characteristics between flying sprints and approach runs were analyzed. Data were collected during and after an international pole vault competition. The correlations between approach speed and vault height, between sprint speed and approach speed, and between explosive strength indicators and sprint speed were large or very large. However, the correlation between reactive strength and sprint speed was small. Differences in speed during the vault approach compared with the flying sprint are mainly due to reduced step length rather than lower step frequency. With the help of a flow chart and regression equations, sound decisions can be made regarding the prioritization of various training components of pole vaulters. With this tool, coaches and athletes can easily evaluate whether or not a facilitator ability is sufficient for improving a more specific performance measure on the way to the central criterion: pole vault height. Furthermore, the results of this study suggest that maintaining step length should be emphasized during approach drills to best exploit sprint-speed potential during the pole vault approach.

Physical determinants of vault performance and their age-related differences across male junior and elite top-level gymnasts.

In order to perform difficult vaults in artistic gymnastics, athletes have to achieve high run-up speeds within the limited run-up distance (25m). However, the physical parameters that contribute to a high run-up speed and their age-related differences remain elusive. Hence, the aim of this study was 1) to investigate interrelations between difficulty value (D-score) and run-up kinematics of Handspring/Tsukahara and Yurchenko vaults as well as lower body power (25m-sprint, explosive and reactive strength) and 2) to explore age-related differences of these parameters across junior and elite gymnasts performing Handspring/Tsukahara vaults. For this purpose, the data (of the above mentioned parameters) of 47 top-level male elite and junior gymnasts aged 14.3 to 28.3 of performance testing, gathered over three years, were analysed. We found that D-score of Handspring/Tsukahara (n = 33) was strongly correlated with run-up speed (r = 0.79; p < 0.01). Further, 25m sprint speed (r = 0.85; p < 0.01) was significantly associated with run-up speed of Handspring/Tsukahara-vaults. There were no significant relationships with the D-score of Yurchenko (n = 14). Looking at the age-related differences of Handspring/Tsukahara, D-score increased significantly from junior to elite level (+11.6%; p < 0.01). The comparison between consecutive age-groups revealed that the U19 group had higher run-up speeds, step lengths, body weights and heights than the U17 group, while the U21 group achieved significantly higher speeds (run-up, 25m-sprint) and explosive strength than the U19 group. We concluded 1) that the optimization of important physical determinants may increase the potential to perform more difficult Handspring/Tsukahara vaults and 2) that first growth and maturation and later improvements of lower body power led to higher run-up speeds of Handspring/Tsukahara in the subsequent age-group. Therefore, based on performance testing of the lower limbs, training recommendations should be given specifically to the requirements of the competition vault.

How pole vaulters from different levels deal with speed to perform

In many studies (Cassirame et al. 2017), pole vault performance has been largely related to horizontal speed achieved by athletes before take-off. This performance results from energetic interactio...

Ancient masonry arches and vaults strengthened with TRM, SRG and FRP composites: Experimental evaluation

Composite materials made with textile fibers both with polymeric and cementitious matrices are often adopted for the retrofitting of masonry arches and vaults. A specific project that analyzes the performance of ancient masonry arches and vaults strengthened with composite systems has been recently concluded at Politecnico of Milan. The project involves the experimental evaluation and the development of numerical and analytical simulations. In this paper the experimental campaign is described, whereas the numerical validation is provided in an accompanying paper (Bertolesi et al., 2017). The tests were performed in situ on ancient masonry arches and vault elements. In particular, three barrel vaults and two arches either unreinforced or reinforced with Steel Reinforced Grout (SRG), Textile Reinforced Mortar (TRM) and Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) were tested.The arches had a span equal to 3.30 m, a rise equal to 0.83 m and were built with common Italian bricks regularly spacing out two bricks laid edge on (thickness of the arch 12 cm) with two bricks (one over the other) disposed in single leaf. Barrel vaults had the same geometry of the arches but were made with a single leaf. In all cases, an eccentric vertical load was applied at 1/4 of the span and was increased up to failure. The experimental results on unreinforced structures are compared with those obtained on the strengthened ones in terms of failure mode, maximum load, stiffness and ductility.

Influence of pole carriage on sprint mechanical properties during pole vault run-up

Pole vault performance is highly correlated with the final running velocity of the athlete at take-off (Frere et al. 2010). To achieve top running velocity, the athlete has to develop a large forwa...