PoleVaultPower.com

I started using the mid mark chart last year and it helped me hit my step a lot easier, but i still have some questions.

1) The chart has a mid mark depending on grip height, and bar height. For example the chart says if you are Jumping 13' you should have a 12'10 grip and mid mark of 43'. My question is, what if I have a 12'10 grip, and jumping 14'? Should I use a mid of 43 because of pole length, or 45 because of speed? or just take the adverage?

I've heard stories of mid mark charts coming back to bite people if followed too closely. I am not sure of the exact chart you are referring too, but I must imagine that the bar height is there as an attempt at measuring the vaulters technical prowess. If your mid mark worked at 43' when you were jumping 13', and the only thing that has changed is the bar height, then you should probably keep the same mid mark. I would think of the chart as more of a suggestion, once you have a pretty good run you don't want to force that run to fit a particular run length or mid mark. I have heard of people who just didn't really fit into the mid mark chart who would have a great step whenever the under stepped their mid mark by a foot, but the coach would have them move based on the mid mark and they would then be inside. Surprise! Sorry, I have a friend who was very frustrated by this, so its rubbed off on me a bit. Sorry to ramble, but bottom line, mid chart is a suggestion, and shouldn't change unless you change your run or grip.

Here is what I have come to think of dj's chart:
1. It is not perfect.
2. It is close...

If you really read through the thread, you will see why. Of course it is not perfect... nothing ever is. There is always an exception to the rule, and measurements like the chart uses, by their very nature, can not be perfect.

What can you grip on your competition pole? What is your corresponding number? Is it within a foot? Is that consistent? Are you running correctly? Where is your take-off mark? What is your take-off speed with the pole? Does THAT match up?

All questions to consider...

(And there are very few anomolies!)