People involved in athletics, especially basketball, volleyball, soccer, and football, are often interested in finding a way to improve their vertical leap. There are many exercises and programs available that are specially designed for improving the a person’s vertical leap. Before proceeding with any of these programs though, an athlete should at least be in fair general physical condition. Here we go over a few exercises that someone could begin with before undertaking a vertical leap program. These will help get you started.

Warm Ups

Prior to beginning any exercises, you need to warm up your muscles. Jog around for ten minutes or run up and down the stairs for a while. It is also a good idea to stretch your muscles prior to exercising. Warming up before doing exercises helps you develop muscle fibers that are used for jumping.

Skipping Rope

Jumping rope is an exercise that is often overlooked, and shouldn’t be, as it can contribute to improving the strength of your legs. Moreover, it promotes maintaining excellent cardiovascular condition. Do this exercise for fifteen to thirty minutes regularly.

Knee Raises

Hold an overhead bar securely, with your arms straight overhead. Hang from the overhead bar, with your arms fully extended and knees slightly bent. Holding this position, slowly raise your knees up to your chest. Squeeze your stomach muscles while doing this. Hold this position for a few seconds, before lowering your legs towards the floor. Repeat the process five times.

Knee Bends

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

Toe Touches

Stand upright. Bend from the waist while keeping your legs straight. Lower yourself down as far as you can go and try to touch your toes with your fingers. Hold this position for a couple seconds. Do this exercise slowly and do not “bounce” while trying to touch your toes. Do this 30 times.

Sit-Ups

Sit-ups can help improve your vertical leap. 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, curl the shoulders off the floor, in a slow motion. Continue to sit up. Do not “pull” on your head with your hands. Concentrate on your stomach doing the work. Exercises for your midsection are crucial for all physical activity as your ultimate all around strength and flexibility start here. Repeat this exercise 10-20 times.

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