How Triple Jump Phases and Fouls Work Explainer
The triple jump must be performed as a hop, a step, and a jump in that order. During the hop, the athlete takes off from one foot and lands first on that same foot. The step then finishes on the opposite foot, which becomes the takeoff foot for the final jump into the pit.
A trial fails if the athlete takes off beyond the board, breaks the required foot sequence, or fails to land the final jump inside the landing area. Simply brushing the ground with the inactive, or sleeping, leg during the sequence is not automatically a failure under the technical rules.
For a valid attempt, officials measure from the takeoff line to the nearest break in the sand made by the athlete's body. The tape runs perpendicular to the takeoff line. A hand or hip mark behind the feet therefore shortens the recorded distance, even if the feet landed farther forward.
The sequence makes the event different from three separate long jumps. Athletes must preserve speed while controlling two intermediate contacts and the final landing. Judges watch the board, foot pattern, boundaries, and exit from the pit before raising the white flag for a measurable attempt.
The athlete must first land on the same foot used for takeoff.
The athlete lands on the opposite foot and then uses it for the final jump.
From the takeoff line to the nearest mark made in the landing area.
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