Consider the following statements regarding the phases of the long jump:
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Before take-off, the athlete gains maximum speed and momentum by sprinting along the runway.
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At the moment of take-off, the athlete uses the weaker leg to push off in order to maintain stability.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The correct answer is option 1 i.e. Only 1 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct. In the long jump, the athlete accelerates along the runway to build maximum speed and momentum, which is crucial for achieving a longer jump. The faster the approach, the greater the potential horizontal distance covered after take-off.
Statement 2 is incorrect. During take-off, the athlete pushes off using the stronger leg, not the weaker one, as this provides the necessary power and lift to convert horizontal speed into vertical motion. Balance is maintained through body coordination and arm movement.