Athletics Pit Company has a specialized athletic training area. It is a space filled with a thin layer of pure quartz or washed river sand that will not harden, even when wet. Ideally, the runway leading up to the pit should be 40 meters long and the same width as a track lane. The takeoff board for a long jump should be one meter behind the pit’s front edge. A jumper competing in a triple jump should be thirteen meters from the pit.
A long jump pit is typically large in size and constructed of sturdy material. The size of the pit will determine its cost. The sand box will need a rake to make the landing surface smooth and an additional cover to keep it clean. When not in use, long jump pits should be covered to prevent contamination and damage to the surface. The simplest pits will cost about $800 to build. If you decide to build one at your school or in your own backyard, you’ll need to build it yourself.
The takeoff phase is the most technical part of a long jump. The main goal is to create vertical momentum during the takeoff. Landing on the toes or heels will lower the athlete’s velocity and decrease the stability of their leg. Furthermore, they’ll likely buckle their legs, which reduces their distance. A proper takeoff will allow you to generate the maximum distance from board contact to the foot’s release.