A PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM FOR AN INTERNATIONAL‐LEVEL TRACK AND FIELD ATHLETE

Abstract

This study outlined the development, implementation, and evaluation of an intervention strategy that was designed to improve the technical skill and performance of an international‐level pole vaulter. Intervention, in the form of a prompting and shaping procedure, consisted of breaking a photoelectric beam with the hands at the moment of take‐off. The height of the beam was gradually increased until the vaulter reached maximum arm extension at take‐off. Increase in arm extension was matched by an increase in bar height clearance.