The triple jump is a monster of an athletic event. When I’ve watched it in the past, I’ve often wondered what kind of stress this must place on the human body. The power required to travel over 37 feet, as Shelbi Schauble does above, in one hop-step-jump sequence is immense. Until I decided to post this black and white composite photo, I had never researched the biomechanics of the event. My wife is a USATF Level 3 and IAAF Level 5 Youth Coach, so I have a basic understanding of the immense technical training required to reach those certifications. The study required is intense. If you take a moment to look at this USATF Biomechanics PDF you’ll begin to get an understanding of the complexity of this event.

So, Shelbi, good luck this weekend at the CIF Southern Section Finals Master’s Meet, and thanks for helping open my eyes to this beautiful, challenging and complex event.

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