Being successful in the high jump starts with knowing what is involved. You need to develop a solid foundation, and then build upon that.

To do that, you have to know what the basics are.

The basics start by knowing there are three different sections to the high jump.

The first section is the Approach.

In this phase, you develop all of the speed that is needed to be able to clear the bar. The approach is also used to put your body in the proper positions to give you the best opportunities for a successful jump.

The most common approach used today is the modified "J". That means that the run up to the bar is run in the shape of a "J".

To begin the approach, you take your first few steps by running straight ahead. This is where the majority of your speed is developed.

Once you run through these first few steps, you need to transition your body so you begin to start the curved section of the "J".

Once you transition into the curve, the steps you take need to step over each other. As you get closer to the bar, each step you run in the curve becomes quicker until you takeoff.

The takeoff is the second section of the high jump.

In this section, the speed that you developed through the approach is used to get your body off of the ground.

It is important that the correct body positions are developed. As you come into the takeoff, you should have a backwards and inwards lean away from the bar.

Another important aspect of the takeoff is the use of the arms. On the second to last step, you will bring your arms behind you. As your takeoff foot hits the ground, the arms swing forward and up.

When using your arms there are two methods that you can use. These are a single or double arm motion. When you are just learning, keep it simple and use whatever arm method is the most comfortable for you.

When done successfully, the upward motion of the arms will help to give you extra lift off the ground.

It is also important to use the non-takeoff leg. Similar to using your arms for some added lift, your non-takeoff leg (free leg) also helps.

To receive the biggest benefit of your free leg, you have to drive your knee straight up when you takeoff. Make sure to drive it up as high as possible. This motion combined with the arms really helps you to jump as high as possible.

The use of your arms and non-takeoff leg are very important. If they are not used correctly your chances of fouling increase considerably!

Once you have left the ground you are now in the third phase of the jump. The flight phase.

Many coaches and beginning jumpers focus on this phase the most. That is because they believe the flight phase or "arch" is what makes you jump higher. That is not the case. It is the approach and the takeoff that allow you to jump high.

So the majority of your time should be spent developing a good approach.

The actual role of the flight phase is to help improve your chances of clearing the bar.

Once you leave the ground, the path that your body takes has already been determined. It cannot be changed! Only minor body adjustments can be made.

As your body continues to rise, you head and shoulders will be the first to clear the bar. Once they are past the bar, you tip your head backwards. As you lean back your hips come up.

Having your head tip backwards and your hips up creates a nice arch. You then you have to collapse that arch and bring the legs and feet over the bar. To do that you just tip your head forward. This motion will help you lift your legs and feet over.

As your body successfully clears the bar, you fall towards the high jump pit. When you hit the mats it is important that you land safely on the upper section of your back.

Once you are on the mats, and the officials have signaled a successful attempt, you have completed the jump.

The best part is, you get to have fun and do the same thing all over again at the next height!