Taking a step backwards from last season...

[bushy_12]

Last season, I had a PR of 14', with consistent vaults around 13' to 13'6".
This season, I had many injuries which prevented me from practicing a lot.
Here are videos of some of my few vaults of the season.

I weigh 142lb.
5'8" tall.
6 lefts.

I have been using a pole that is just on my weight level, which, I think, is causing me to not shoot up.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47ctpUv9KH8

In the second video, I try out two new poles. The first one (150lb), I think I bend too much, and I think I bail out because of this.
The second pole seems good, but I just need to be able to get on top of it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ySHZs1aLmY

I have a meet this coming Saturday, which I intend on using the 14' 160lb.

Any input is appreciated.

Thanks for the help.

[waynepv]

The main reason why you aren't getting into the pit is because there is no drive phase of your vault. If you could put some day light inbetween your bottom hand and your head and begin to push up then you can start moving to bigger poles. This will also help keep your hips back, and allow you to get a nice quick swing. Since your hips get sucked under, you can't load the pole and get more penetration. The 150 Rocket looks like it would be a nice baby pole when you fix your plant, and the 160 spirit can be a nice competition pole for a couple of weeks.

[powerplant42]

I totally disagree. You should not do much at all with the bottom arm after take-off except use it for balance. waynepv, you seem to be describing blocking... Is that what you meant?

If you just take-off free (you're way, way under), you'll need a much, much bigger pole within no time at all!

[waynepv]

Not blocking, but pushing up with the bottom arm. Create some space from forehead and hand. This guy has a tendency to break the arm in completely. You do not need a huge push to get the pole to bend, a little push will do.

[powerplant42]

After pole-strike, continue to push the pole with both hands toward the crossbar... That is, UP... With your bottom arm bent outward.