switching poles

[ucrazay]

Hi im trying to switch to a longer pole but i wasnt sure if i should really switch and if i did what pole to switch to if someone could give me some advice that would be great. I weigh like 125 i jump on a 11' 6" 120 n my pr is like 10'. Thnks alot

[Rhino]

Fairly simple. I you need to go longer, get a 12' 120. It should be a little stiffer than a 11' 6" 125, which would be the next pole in the progression, stiffness-wise. You need to be landing deep while covering the pole well at the top (clearing close to your hand-hold) before raising your grip.

[ucrazay]

I was thinking of buyin a 12' 6' 125 because ive aldready jumped on a 12' 120 and i was landing deep enough in the pits. the reason im on an 11' 6' 120 right now is actually because my new school does not carry any 12' 120 poles.. Im also buying my own pole so i was trying to get something i could use for a little while.. whould u suggest i buythe 12 6 125 or not?

[rainbowgirl28]

Are you in high school?

How high are you holding, how tall are you, how high have you jumped, how many lefts are you running from, where are the standards when you jump?

[ucrazay]

Yes im in high school im holding at about 11' and taking 5 lefts, my standards are at about 50 - 55

[ucrazay]

oo sry i forgot to mention im 5' 6"

[Rhino]

You must understand that a longer pole of a given weight will be stiffer than a shorter pole of the same weight by quite a bit (like 20 pounds per foot in 15 foot poles, probably different for the small poles). You must maintain your body weight below the posted weight of the pole to satisfy high school rules. By the time you are able to hold high enough to bend the 12' 6" pole, you may not be able to make weight on it.

A foot of grip height is a big climb. If you are able to bend and get in on the 12' 120, maybe you could manage the 12' 125, but before you invest in the pole, be confident you won't weigh in at an ounce over 125 during the expected life of the pole.