Jump (third) Phase of the Triple Jump

The third and final phase of the Triple Jump is a long jump. The take-off leg (the drive leg in the previous phases) is extended forcefully upon contact with the ground. With the free-leg thigh driving to the waist level again. The arms drive forward and up, and block momentarily when the hands reach face level. The torso should be held erect with the chin up and eyes looking beyond the pit. Once in the air, the legs move into a hang position with both thighs directly below the torso, legs bent at the knees to an angle of 90 degrees or less. The arms are extended overhead to slow rotation with the hands reaching for the sky. This position is held through mid-flight. The arms then drive forward, down, and back as the legs, simultaneously, swing forward and the thighs rise parallel to the ground. The knees remain bent to take advantage of a shorter lever. When the thighs reach parallel the legs extend rapidly with the ankles flexed and toes pointing up. The athlete holds this position until his heels hit the sand. As the knees collapse, the hips rise and the athlete slides through the sand. The butt has to get dirty for the best results.