Pituushyppy

Pituushyppy, known in English as the long jump, is a track and field event in which an athlete runs along a runway and jumps to achieve maximum horizontal distance into a sand pit. The result is measured from the front edge of the take-off line to the closest point of contact in the landing.

Competitors use a combination of speed, strength and technique. After a controlled approach, the jumper leaves the ground at or before the take-off line and enters a flight phase, often employing a technique such as the hitch-kick, the hang, or the sail to maximize forward momentum. Landing is performed with the body leaning forward to reach as far as possible into the sand.

Rules and measurement are straightforward but precise. A jump is invalid (a foul) if the jumper steps beyond the take-off board or outside the designated take-off zone. If a jump is valid, the distance is measured from the take-off line to the nearest point in the landing area where any part of the body touches the sand. Measurements are taken to the nearest centimeter.

History and significance: the long jump has been part of track and field since the early days of modern athletics and is contested in major events such as the Olympic Games and World Championships. Notable records include the men’s world record of 8.95 meters set by Mike Powell in 1991 and the women’s world record of 7.52 meters set by Galina Chistyakova in 1988. Prominent athletes include Bob Beamon, Carl Lewis, and Powell, who have left lasting marks on the event.