Can the Fosbury Flop Technique Overcome a Wall?

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In summary: If the object's center of mass is not over the center of the obstruction, then the maneuver will be unsuccessful.In summary, the Fosbury Flop technique is successful because the center of mass stays significantly under the bar, whereas if you try to jump over a wall, the center of mass may be located at a material point above the wall, and so the jump will be unsuccessful. The difference between the cases is that the bar has more give than a wall, and so it's possible to land partially on it or to otherwise strike it without knocking it out of place. Additionally, the wall is less forgiving, meaning there is a higher margin for error when jumping over it.
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Heirot
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It is said that jumping with the Fosbury Flop technique, one's center of mass stays significantly under the bar. What if, instead of the bar, one tryed to jump over a wall? It looks as though there's no difference between the bar and the wall, but the wall is a potential barrier for the center of mass and so the jump should be unsuccessful. What's the difference between the two cases and why is the Fosbury Flop tehcnique successful?
 
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  • #2
Why is the wall a potential barrier for the center of mass? Is the center of mass always located at a material point within a body during that maneuver?
 
  • #3
Heirot said:
...but the wall is a potential barrier for the center of mass and so the jump should be unsuccessful. What's the difference between the two cases ... ?

No offense, but this is just rubbish. Unless air flow has influence on successful FF jump, there is absolutely no difference between the two.
 
  • #4
The trajectory of a body is determinated by the motion of the center of mass. If the energy of the body is not large enough for the center of mass to go over the wall, then the wall should be a barrier for the motion.

Also, one obvious difference between the wall and the bar is that you can put your arms/legs under the bar while jumping and maybe that's what makes the key difference.
 
  • #5
If you have a hard time seeing how a body can travel over a wall with it's COG always below it consider a Slinky.
 
  • #6
Heirot said:
The trajectory of a body is determinated by the motion of the center of mass. If the energy of the body is not large enough for the center of mass to go over the wall, then the wall should be a barrier for the motion.

Also, one obvious difference between the wall and the bar is that you can put your arms/legs under the bar while jumping and maybe that's what makes the key difference.
Seconded.

There is also a lot more give to a bar than a wall. It is possible to land partially on the bar, or to otherwise strike it, without knocking it out of place. Walls are...less forgiving. There is a higher margin for error when jumping over the bar, meaning a higher chance for success.

Psychologically, there is a huge difference. However it's very difficult to judge how the psychological difference between a wall and a bar will affect performance without testing it.
Vanadium 50 said:
If you have a hard time seeing how a body can travel over a wall with it's COG always below it consider a Slinky.

That was the perfect thing to say to make the concept "click" in my head. Awesome.
 
  • #7
Vanadium 50 said:
If you have a hard time seeing how a body can travel over a wall with it's COG always below it consider a Slinky.

So, you're saying that a slinky can travel over the wall with it's COM always below it? So, I'm mistaking about the barrier for the motion?
 
  • #8
Heirot said:
So, you're saying that a slinky can travel over the wall with it's COM always below it? So, I'm mistaking about the barrier for the motion?
Yes and yes. Try it and see.

Since no part of the object (man or slinky) passes under the bar, it doesn't matter if it's a bar or a wall.
 

FAQ: Can the Fosbury Flop Technique Overcome a Wall?

What is the Fosbury Flop?

The Fosbury Flop is a technique used in the sport of high jump, where the athlete jumps over the bar backwards and lands on their back. It was invented by American athlete Dick Fosbury in the 1960s and became the preferred technique for high jumpers.

How is the Fosbury Flop different from other high jump techniques?

The Fosbury Flop is different from other high jump techniques because it involves jumping over the bar backwards and landing on the back, while other techniques involve jumping face-forward or sideways and landing on the feet or stomach. It also allows for the athlete to clear higher heights due to the increased arc of the jump.

What are the advantages of using the Fosbury Flop?

There are several advantages to using the Fosbury Flop technique. It allows the athlete to jump higher heights due to increased clearance over the bar. It also reduces the risk of injury, as the athlete lands on their back instead of their feet. Additionally, it requires less energy and effort compared to other techniques.

What are the key elements of a successful Fosbury Flop?

A successful Fosbury Flop requires proper positioning and timing. The athlete must approach the bar at the right angle and speed, and then launch themselves upwards and backwards over the bar. The body must also be in the correct position, with the head and shoulders leading the way and the back arched to clear the bar.

Are there any downsides to using the Fosbury Flop?

Some athletes may find the Fosbury Flop difficult to master, as it requires a significant amount of practice and coordination. It also may not be suitable for all athletes, as some may not feel comfortable jumping backwards. Additionally, some coaches and trainers may prefer other techniques for their athletes based on individual strengths and abilities.

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