What is an acceptable range of hip angles for a 'pike down' position on stretched vaults to aid landing?

The correct answer is indeed the range of 136 - 179 degrees for hip angles in the 'pike down' position on stretched vaults to facilitate a proper landing. This angle indicates that the gymnast is effectively positioning their body for a controlled descent.

In gymnastics, the pike down position is crucial during the landing phase, as it helps to create a landing that is both safe and stable. An angle within this range generally suggests that the gymnast has completed the aerial phase of their vault, transitioning into a forward position that prepares them for landing. A wider range of hip angles indicates a greater degree of control and body positioning, which is vital for maintaining balance and absorbing the impact safely upon landing.

Angles below this range might indicate a lack of sufficient pike, leading to potential difficulties in controlling the landing, while angles at the extreme of 180 degrees could mean the gymnast is overextended or flat, which also compromises the effectiveness of the landing technique.