Definitions / Block 5 — Common Terms
C-Position
A bow-shaped body position at takeoff — takeoff leg extended behind, chest driven forward past the top grip — named for its resemblance to the letter C.
The C-position is a bow-shaped body position at takeoff, in which the takeoff leg extends behind the body while the chest drives forward, ahead of the top grip. The shape resembles the letter C.
Created deliberately, to delay rotation, keep the center of gravity lower for longer to enhance horizontal penetration of the vaulter-pole system, and pre-stretch the muscles used to enhance the leg whip. The athlete exits the position with a trail-leg whip that transitions into rotation after the trail leg passes the line drawn from the top grip through the center of gravity of the vaulter.
Related
The diagnostic use of this term, and how it is applied in coaching, is in the member vault.