left arm problems!!

[polevault-norway]

I have a real big problem with keeping my left arm straight!! does anyone have any tips on how to fix this problem???
Also I'm like "flagging" out on the top, even though I'm pretty good at getting inverted, at least it feals like it. I would like to hear your opinion. There's no coach were I live so I need all the help I can get.

Other comments on my technique are welcome to.


here's a link to a jump from 3 lefts:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7iBNm5fld8M

[Bruce Caldwell]

Keeping the left arm straight causes other problems such as killing the swing!
A few helpful hints for you;
1. jump more at the take off and go with the pole do not press to make the left arm straight just hang!
2. two strides out you seem to lean forward that is not good for continued flow of energy to the jump!
3. Please provide your weight grip and size pole you are using you may be on the wrong size pole keeping you from getting your feet up!
Bruce Caldwell

[polevault-norway]

[quote="ESSX"]Keeping the left arm straight causes other problems such as killing the swing!

But even though your not supposed to push with the left arm it, souldn't it be straight? When I'm able to get a Good take-off, I thought I should push upwards with both arms, to maximise the pole/ground angle???

[Bruce Caldwell]

you should jump upwards or at an angle relative to your energy transfer.
The top hand it the rotation point of the vault. if you make both hands the rotation point you will rotate at the shoulders.
It is best to hang from the top hand and allow the bottom hand to bend but be firm to keep from collapsing towards the pole!
pressing upward but allowing the arm to bend is important. firm bottom arm can kill the swing so you must find your medium!
Bruce