The Monkey Vault can be used in clearing just about any obstacle. It is simple, but at the same time can be very difficult to learn. Many runners fear catching their feet on the wall or rail and inevitably face planting. The more timid you are approaching the vault, the greater the chance of failure. When just starting out, you should run at a pace slightly faster than a jog. Next, you want jump off both feet and plant both hands at a wider than a shoulder's width (look to picture) on the obstacle at the same time or even a little before. Now, the most important part is to tuck and lean forward. Leaning forward may seem scary at first, but it helps get your feet through your arms and over the obstacle. You should be pushing down with your shoulders throughout the plant and push off at the end to help maintain your momentum. It is important to keep tucked until you are practically past the obstacle. Do not untuck early in anticipation of landing as you might catch your feet. Once past the obstacle, your body should straighten out naturally with a little help from the push off. I recommend starting out vaulting over walls or rails at about waist height, no lower.
Thanks to pdeperio for the picture
Live Hardcore,
Christoph
