description Pole Vault Overview
A sprint becomes a vertical clearance in pole vault, a track and field event built around a long, flexible pole. The athlete accelerates along a runway, plants the pole in a recessed metal box, and uses coordinated movement as the pole bends and recoils. The vaulter turns and inverts the body to pass over a horizontal crossbar before landing on a large cushioned mat. Modern poles commonly use fiberglass or carbon fiber, materials that combine low weight with the flexibility needed for the event.
Successful vaulting depends on converting running speed into height while controlling the timing of the plant and clearance. It suits athletes interested in a technically demanding combination of sprinting and body control. Men's pole vault has been a medal event at every modern Summer Olympics since 1896, while the women's event entered the Olympic programme in 2000.
help Pole Vault FAQ
How does the pole vault event work in track and field?
Competitors use a long, flexible pole to launch themselves over a horizontal crossbar. After sprinting down a runway, they plant the pole into a metal box to generate upward momentum.
What technique do pole vaulters use to get over the bar?
The vaulter plants the pole into a metal box and uses the resulting spring momentum to invert their body. They then push off the pole and arch over the crossbar face-down.
What do athletes land on in the pole vault event?
Vaulters land on a large, heavily padded mat placed directly behind the crossbar. This cushioning is essential to safely absorb the fall from heights that can exceed 18 feet.
Are there specific rules regarding the pole used in pole vaulting?
Yes, athletes use poles made of highly flexible materials like fiberglass or carbon fiber. The pole must meet specific length and weight ratings suited to the individual vaulter's mass.
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