Final answer:
Leaping is a locomotor skill that expands on running, using greater leg force for higher jumps such as in the standing broad jump. To avoid injury on landing, bending the legs, similar to a kangaroo's hopping, can cushion the impact significantly.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of fundamental locomotor skills, leaping is an extension of a run where greater force is used to achieve a higher elevation than running. When leaping, the legs extend powerfully to propel the body forward. In a movement such as the standing broad jump, for instance, one would squat and then push off with the legs to maximize the distance of the jump. This characteristically long jump utilizes a significant extension of the legs paired with acceleration to carry the body through the air. To reduce impact upon landing, an individual can bend their legs to decrease the force experienced. The kangaroo's hopping demonstrates this principle well, as they can safely absorb the shock from high impacts due to the bending of their hind legs. Such force management is essential for preventing injuries such as broken bones, making the mechanics of leaping not just a matter of distance but also a consideration of safety.