How long is the runway, and how big is the sand pit?

• The runway: at least 40 m from the take-off line, and 45 m where conditions permit. It is 1.22 m wide and marked by white lines.
• The board: rectangular, of wood or another rigid material that spikes grip, 1.22 m long, 0.20 m wide and no more than 0.10 m deep. It is white.
• Beyond the board: the ground or blanking board immediately past the take-off line is in a colour other than white, so the line stands out.
• The pit: 2.75 m to 3 m wide, placed so that the middle of the runway lines up with the middle of the pit.
• The sand: "soft damp sand, the top surface of which shall be level with the take-off board".
• Board to pit: at major competitions not less than 13 m for men and 11 m for women. At other competitions the distance is set to suit the level.
• Length of the pit: at least 21 m from the men's take-off line to the far end of the landing area.
• The take-off area: between the board and the pit there is a strip 1.22 m wide with firm and even footing for the step and the jump.
• Markers: an athlete may place one or two markers beside the runway, not on it.
• Slope: the runway may drop by no more than 1 in 1000 over its last 40 m in the direction of running.

The run to the board is the approach run of the glossary.

Sand shows a clear mark and gives a soft landing, and keeping it level with the board means the jump is measured on one flat plane. A runway wide enough for one athlete and long enough for a full sprint lets speed, which matters most in this event, be used in full.