Abstract: The invention relates to an improvement in training devices, in particular, training devices for the pole vault exercise. The apparatus propels a person into the air, and after obtaining the desired point of inertia, provides support for projecting the person beyond this point of inertia. The apparatus therefore simulates the pole vault procedure, wherein, the approach to the clearance bar is eliminated, the pole and the athlete are propelled vertically from a lower, more horizontal position to a higher, more vertical position, thereby, providing a safe, efficient, and effective tool for mastering the "in-flight" technique of the pole vault acitvity.