Why is pole used in pole vaulter?

Answer 1

If you are not

1.) running down the middle of the lane

2.) planting the pole in the middle of the pit

3.) vaulting with an overall centered position

you will

1.) vault either to the left of right of the pit (not good)

2.) potentially hurt yourself (more than likely)

Balance HELPS to accomplish these tasks.

Answer 2

With the possible exception of Superman who can leap tall buildings in a single bound, athletes can't quite top the nine foot mark without the pole.