Three-dimensional analysis of the angular momentum of a pole-vaulter

Abstract A method to determine the three orthogonal components of the angular momentum of a human body about its center of gravity is applied to the pole-vault. The angular momentum and the pole force are used in the analysis of pole-vaulting and are also compared with Gros's data (1982, Ph.D. thesis, University of Alberta) and Hubbard and Barlow's results (1980, Proc. Biomechanics Symp. Indian State Board of Health, pp. 33–48). This study tries to show how such results can be useful in many sporting activities and are necessary for optimization of athletic movement.