PoleVaultPower.com

back to it after 21 years, unfortunately lost speed and put on weight. at 5'10 200 lbs I jumped for 1st time, straight vaulting at 10' grip on 14-60. Wanted to know your recommendations as I move up grip and hopefully lose some weight back down towards 180 or so. when I moved up to 10'6 I put a little bend on it but was concerned if I swung back, I could mash it since I am so over in weight rating.

Well first, welcome back. We've been waiting for you. We were all out of shape and remain so to some degree but it sounds to me like you're being smart. With that grip the pole is rated much stiffer than a 160. Starting to jump again by straight pole vaulting with a gradual bend being introduced as a natural result of your swing is EXACTLY what you should be doing. Very smart on your part. Have fun! Bubba

Rule of thumb is 10lbs of stiffness per every 6" down on grip, or 20lbs per foot.

Sooo, if you're on a 14' 160, it's a 160 at 14', a 180 at 13', a 200 at 12', a 220 at 11', and a 240 at 10'. So really, you're jumping on a 10' 240. Don't think you really need to worry about breakage!

See http://www.skyjumpers.com/articles/reli ... _chart.htm

thanks guys, I thought I was safe, but was not sure where the pole rating occurs and how much per foot. Now I know, so the work falls back on me to make it up and into the pit.