Lesson 1:
Why the Approach is Everything
Coach Brad Hackett opens the session with a personal reflection on his coaching journey, highlighting his involvement with national track and field development and the lasting influence of biomechanics expert Dr. James Hay. He sets the tone by emphasizing that the majority of the hour will focus on the approach phase of the long jump—an often underestimated component that he considers the most critical. Drawing from both early clinic experiences and sports science insights, Coach Hackett lays the groundwork for understanding the pivotal role of approach mechanics in long jump success.
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In "Long Jump Skills & Drills", Coach Brad Hackett delivers a practical lecture on mastering the long jump, drawing from decades of experience in track and field coaching. The course begins by emphasizing the fundamentals of proper takeoff mechanics, including foot placement, body posture, and the importance of horizontal velocity. Coach Brad introduces essential drills such as the "last stride...
