FAST TRACK TRAINING - Even Vaulters Need a Base!

I was speaking with the Pole Vault Coach at one of the nation's premiere NCAA I Track and Field programs today. And, though they have not yet started official practice, his vaulters are hard at work. "Everyone has to have a base, regardless of their event", he stated and this belief is prevalent in their summer training. Their running training is dominated by 20 minute fartlek runs and hilly runs. In the gym, they are prioritizing general strength and conditioning. Their workouts consist of a lot of medicine ball, core, high bar, ring and body weight exercises. "It is important for kids to slow down and not be in too big of a rush toward specificity, get fit first!".