Recognize This?
Earl Bell is a retired American pole vaulter and renowned coach but if you search for "Earl Bell Height-Step Progressions" you might find this image and maybe a few links to Reddit or Instagram. Not much else. If you've seen this chart, you know it's a training guideline for pole vaulters.
For each full-approach PR height, it shows what a vaulter should reasonably clear from shorter run-ups — given proportional speed and consistent technique.
The chart is a general guide, not a rule and it's most likely designed around males. Some vaulters jump proportionally better or worse from short approaches.
Consistency starts at the mark
You or your coach may have a screenshot of the chart saved on your phone and hard to access. Instead, bookmark the site for an easy reference of the chart.
Not only is the chart digitized, but now you can input your current PRs and your goal PR to see your progress compared to the chart progression.
No subscription. No paywall. Height-Step Progression is free for any athlete or coach.
Improving the graph is our goal. Soon we will providing a way for you to submit your PRs across all steps and provide key metics to expand the scope of the chart.