What is the ideal takeoff angle for a long jump?

In ideal projectile motion, 45 degrees maximizes distance. However, elite long jumpers typically leave the board at 18–23 degrees because maintaining full sprint speed into takeoff is more valuable than a steep angle. This calculator lets you explore both the physics ideal and practical angles.

How does takeoff speed affect jump distance?

Distance scales with the square of takeoff speed (d = v²sin(2θ)/g). Doubling your takeoff speed quadruples your theoretical distance. This is why sprint approach speed is the single biggest factor in long jump performance.

What formula does this calculator use?

The projectile range formula: d = (v² × sin(2θ)) / g, where v is takeoff speed in m/s, θ is the takeoff angle, and g = 9.81 m/s². This assumes flat ground and no air resistance, so real distances may vary slightly.

How do I convert my approach speed from a sprint time?

If you run a 10-meter approach in 1.2 seconds, your average speed is 10/1.2 ≈ 8.3 m/s. Elite long jumpers typically reach 10.5–11 m/s at the board. Enter that speed and experiment with angle to see the theoretical range.

Why does the calculator show a shorter distance than I actually jump?

The formula assumes the athlete launches and lands at the same height, with no air resistance. In reality, arm swing, body posture in flight, and landing technique all add distance. Think of the calculator result as a baseline floor, not a ceiling.

Long Jump Helper

Name: Long Jump Helper
Availability: InStock
Author: Nham Vu

Enter your takeoff speed and angle to calculate long jump distance, find the optimal angle, and convert results between meters and feet.

Jump Parameters

Takeoff Speed

Takeoff Angle (degrees above horizontal)

5° (flat) 45° (physics ideal) 70°

Result Unit

Jump Distance

Enter speed and angle, then click Calculate.

Angle vs. Distance

Angle	Distance (m)	Distance (ft)	Note

45° maximizes theoretical range; elite jumpers typically leave the board at 18–23° due to sprint speed constraints.

Summary

Enter your takeoff speed and angle to calculate long jump distance, find the optimal angle, and convert results between meters and feet.

How it works

Enter your takeoff speed in meters per second (or switch to km/h or mph).
Enter your takeoff angle in degrees (the angle of your body lean at the moment of leaving the board).
Click Calculate to see the projected jump distance.
Use the Optimal Angle tab to find the angle that maximizes distance for your speed.
Toggle the unit selector to view the result in meters or feet and inches.

Use cases

Estimate how far you should jump based on your sprint approach speed.
Find the optimal takeoff angle to maximize your long jump distance.
Plan training goals by working backward from a target distance.
Convert personal best distances between metric and imperial for international competition records.
Compare how small angle adjustments affect projected jump distance.
Understand the physics of projectile motion applied to track and field.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-07-01 · Reviewed by Nham Vu