What I did on my summer vacation: Erik Kynard

8/30/2007

WHAT HE DID: The defending City League high jump champion and defending Division I state runner-up spent part of June trying to forget about finishing just shy of a state championship. During July and August, Kynard trained on the track and in the weight room. His workout regimen even involved going through off-season conditioning designed specifically for the Rams football team. His track workout program, which took place at least four days a week, included plenty of jumping exercises. Kynard, who cleared a school-best seven feet in an indoor meet in January, completed running and jumping exercises working out regularly in a weight vest. His training also included plenty of stretching and core (abdominal) work.

HOW IT HELPED: Whatever happens happens, and you can t change the past and you can t dwell on it and have regrets. I use the past as fuel to power my life. I decided I would recover from all my mistakes. A little bit into the month of July I was introduced to my new best friends plyometrics and a weight vest. When my coach started to show me how to do the (plyometrics) drills I laughed plain and simple. I was like, How hard can this be? It was hard. Period. The physical results are a thicker, stronger build on a 6-foot-5 frame. The additional training has also raised his confidence.

OUTLOOK: The future continues to look bright for one of the most successful high jumpers in City League history. With two years left in high school, Kynard is committed to leaving a lasting mark on his favorite sport. He remains determined to win a state outdoor championship and clear seven feet in an outdoor meet. Clearing the state record of 7 feet, 2 en route to winning a state title would be ideal. The added bulk and power has him considering running in sprint events.