Exercises To Improve Your Vertical Jump

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There are many exercises you can use to help you jump higher. Here are a few that you can use as general "get in shape" exercises before starting you actual vertical jump training program.

Warm Ups

Before starting any exercises, you ought to warm up your muscles. Jog around for ten minutes or run up and down some stairs. It is also a sound idea to stretch your muscles prior to exercising. Warming up prior to exercising helps you develop muscle fibers that are utilized for jumping.

Skipping Rope

Skipping rope is an exercise that is often overlooked, and shouldn't be, as it will contribute to increasing the strength of your legs. Moreover, it helps maintain excellent cardiovascular condition. Do this exercise for 15 to 30 minutes on a regular basis.

Knee Raises

Hold an overhead bar securely, with your arms about shoulder-width apart. Hang from the overhead bar, with your arms fully extended and knees bent slightly. Holding this position, slowly pull your knees up to your chest. Squeeze your stomach muscles while doing these. Hold this position for several seconds, before lowering your legs towards the floor. Repeat this exercise five times.

Knee Bends

One of the best ways to improve the strength of your legs is with knee bends (also called squats). Stand in an upright position - straight, with chest out and keeping your back tight. Proceed to bend your knees slowly, keeping the back straight. Crouch, in a slow motion, as far down as possible. Repeat this exercise 20 times.

Toe Touches

Stand upright. Bend at the waist while keeping your legs straight. Continue bending down as far as you can go at the same time trying to touch your toes with your fingers. Sustain this position for a couple seconds. Do this exercise slowly and avoid "bouncing" while trying to touch your toes. Repeat this thirty times.

Sit-Ups

Sit-ups will help improve your vertical jump. Begin this exercise laying with your back against the floor, with your legs bent at the knees, and your feet flat on the floor. Place you hands behind your head. Now, pull the shoulders from the floor, in a slow motion. Continue to sit up. Try to not "pull" on the back of your neck with your hands. Focus on making your stomach do the work. Exercises for your midsection are crucial for all physical activity as it is the "core" area of your body. Repeat this 10-20 times.