Long Jump Takeoff Calculator

Enter your takeoff speed, takeoff angle, and takeoff height to calculate the optimal long jump trajectory. The Long Jump Takeoff Calculator returns your estimated horizontal jump distance, maximum height reached, flight time, and peak height above takeoff — all based on projectile motion physics.

m/s

Horizontal speed at the moment of takeoff. Elite male long jumpers reach ~10–11 m/s.

°

Angle of projection above horizontal. Long jumpers typically achieve 15–25°.

m

Height of the athlete's centre of mass above the ground at takeoff. Typically 0.8–1.0 m.

m

Height of landing point (e.g. feet in sand pit). Use 0 for flat ground, ~0.3–0.5 m for a sand pit.

Results

Estimated Jump Distance

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Maximum Height Above Ground

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Flight Time

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Peak Height Above Takeoff

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Vertical Velocity at Takeoff

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Horizontal Velocity at Takeoff

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Performance Rating

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Trajectory Breakdown (m)

Results Table

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the optimal takeoff angle for the long jump?

In theory, a 45° angle maximizes range on flat ground, but in practice elite long jumpers use angles of 15–25°. This is because they arrive at the board at very high horizontal speeds (9–11 m/s), and generating a steep vertical force would cause too much speed loss. The actual optimal angle depends on your approach speed and technique.

How does takeoff speed affect jump distance?

Takeoff speed has the greatest single influence on jump distance. Because distance is proportional to the square of the velocity, even a small increase in approach speed produces a large gain in distance. Most coaching programs prioritize sprint speed development alongside takeoff technique for this reason.

What is takeoff height and why does it matter?

Takeoff height is the height of the athlete's centre of mass above the ground at the moment of leaving the board, typically 0.85–1.0 m for adult athletes. A higher centre of mass at takeoff gives the projectile a head start in height, slightly increasing flight time and horizontal distance.

Does this calculator account for air resistance?

No — this is a simplified projectile motion model using only gravity (9.81 m/s²). Air drag, wind, athlete body position in flight, and arm/leg actions during flight are not included. Results are a useful theoretical baseline but will differ from real competition performances.

What is a good long jump distance for an amateur athlete?

For adult males, a standing long jump of around 2.0–2.5 m is average, while a running long jump of 5.0–6.5 m is typical for recreational athletes. Elite male athletes exceed 8 m, with the world record standing at 8.95 m (Mike Powell, 1991). Female averages are roughly 15–20% shorter.

How do I use this calculator to improve my technique?

Enter your measured approach speed and estimated takeoff angle from video analysis. Then experiment with the angle slider to see how changes affect distance. If your angle is very low (under 15°), focus on takeoff drive. If speed is your limiting factor, prioritize sprint acceleration in training.

What muscles are most important for long jump takeoff?

The takeoff primarily demands explosive power from the quadriceps, glutes, and calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus). Hip flexors are critical for the penultimate step and knee drive. Upper body momentum from the arms also contributes to vertical impulse at the board.

What is flight time in the long jump and how long is it typically?

Flight time is the duration from leaving the takeoff board to first contact with the sand pit. For recreational athletes it is typically 0.6–0.9 seconds, while elite jumpers with distances near 8 m may be airborne for around 0.85–1.0 seconds. Maximizing productive flight time requires both speed and an effective takeoff angle.

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