A systematic review of training interventions to improve long jump performance in novice, youth, and beginner athletes

Abstract

Background and Study Aim. Long jump performance depends on the coordinated interaction of approach-run control, step regulation, take-off mechanics, technical skill, and physical preparation. This makes the event especially demanding for novice, youth, and beginner athletes. Despite the importance of early athlete development, long-jump-specific evidence on effective training methods for these populations remains limited and fragmented. This systematic review therefore aimed to synthesize current evidence on training interventions and performance-related determinants associated with improving long jump performance in developing athletes.

Materials and Methods. A systematic review was conducted to identify, screen, and synthesize studies examining long jump development in novice, youth, and beginner populations. Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria and were organized into four domains: technical development, skill acquisition, physical conditioning, and competition-related performance enhancement. The synthesis used cross-study comparison to examine the main interventions, learning processes, and performance factors reported in the included literature.

Results. The strongest support was found for approach-run regulation, feedback-mediated skill acquisition, and plyometric or structured program-based physical training. Technical studies emphasized step adjustment, stride interaction, asymmetry control, and take-off board accuracy during the approach phase. Skill acquisition studies showed that the type, timing, and structure of feedback, including active, variable, video-assisted, and delayed mechanical feedback, influenced technique learning and movement correction. Physical conditioning studies indicated that plyometric-focused and structured training programmes could improve sprinting and jump-related capacities relevant to long jump performance. One competition-related study also suggested a possible short-term performance benefit from acute plyometric activity before jumping.

Conclusions. Long jump development in novice and youth athletes appears to be multidimensional and is best supported by integrating technical instruction with targeted physical preparation. However, the evidence base is small and heterogeneous. Therefore, the findings should be applied cautiously in practice. Further long-jump-specific longitudinal research is needed to support stronger and more precise training recommendations for developing athletes.