APKpolevaulter wrote:I dont see how you could fun faster pushing, but i dont know.
Run 2 timed 30's. For the first one, you have to run with your arms folded across your chest the entire distance. For the second one, pump your arms like a sprinter. Compare the times and let us know which one is faster.
Running with, sliding, or pushing (but not "dragging" please) is simply a faster way to run. You don't support the weight of the pole, the ground does. You might have 1/2 inch of pole touching the runway, so there's not a lot of surface area for friction to be much of a factor. Mainly, without the weight of the pole, you can run with much better posture, not leaning back, but really driving with good backside sprint mechanics all the way through the box. With one hand on the pole, the other is free to pump like a sprinter. There's no pole-drop to time up, just grab and punch overhead. Rarely does anyone ever miss the box, but I see kids plant over the box onto or under the pit all the time when they carry.
It isn't the best way for everyone, but is has its benefits. I say, use whatever makes you jump the highest!