Acceleration Rhythm and Horizontal Velocity Retention Differentiate World-Class, Elite, and Sub-Elite Female Pole Vaulters: A Three-Dimensional Kinematic Analysis

Abstract

Background: The approach run and take-off phases critically determine pole vault performance, yet the kinematic and temporal characteristics distinguishing world-class from sub-elite female vaulters remain incompletely characterized, particularly in ecological competition settings.
Methods: This cross-sectional study compared three-dimensional kinematics of the approach and take-off phases between world-class (n = 6), Chinese elite (n = 8), and Chinese sub-elite (n = 9) female pole vaulters during competition. Field-based video analysis at 100 Hz was employed, with effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals reported to address small-sample limitations.
Results: World-class athletes exhibit a "slow-fast" acceleration rhythm during the final two approach steps, while Chinese athletes show a "fast-slow" deceleration. At take-off, world-class vaulters have a higher horizontal velocity (7.02 m/s) compared to elite (6.44 m/s) and sub-elite groups (6.04 m/s). Additionally, these athletes exhibit lower take-off angles (19.1°) negatively correlated with performance.
Conclusion: World-class female pole-vaulting performance is distinguished by efficient velocity preservation during the approach and take-off phases, rather than merely higher absolute speeds. These findings provide evidence-based targets for technical optimization in elite training programs.