Training, Training & More Training

Developing Your Vertical Jump

Just for a moment, imagine yourself running faster, playing your favorite sport better, and most importantly, see yourself jumping higher. Can you imagine that? So, how do you improve the height of your vertical leap, you ask?  There’s a simple answer. Training!

In order to jump “sky high”, there are two very important muscles that need to be emphasized: the calf and quadriceps muscles. The power in your jump will come from the quad muscle in the front of your thigh; and the explosion that lifts you off of the floor comes from having strong calf muscles.

So, you must train, train, train to strengthen those muscles. As for the quads, perform the leg press workout on a leg press machine, pushing weight outwards or upwards, while maintaining controlled posture of your body. Leg extensions, where you sit and lift weight upward with both legs, is another way to strengthen the quads. Another effective training for building strength is the wall sit, which requires less equipment and more reliance on the weight of your own body. Sit on a wall, dropping your rear end until your quads are at a 90 degree angle and parallel to the ground. Remain seated in that position for awhile and then repeat.

The other important muscle group to jump higher is the calf muscles. There are a few training exercises you can do to strengthen them. Toe raises are very effective and show results quickly. To do toe raises, stand against a wall to keep your balance; then, on one foot, raise yourself up then down, keeping the weight on the front balls of your feet at all times. Running sprints will also help to develop the calf muscle.

Using weight training to strengthen and tone these muscles, you will soon be jumping higher and even running faster. The world’s best athletes win their championships in the weight room. Have you ever considered that fact? Well, there is no reason why you cannot be amongst them! Take action now.

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Jump Higher…Today!

In order to perfect your vertical leap and to jump higher than ever before, coaching, training shoes and exercises are important. No doubt!

But, while you are seeking out a solid coaching program and shoes to make you jump higher, you can begin today with one easy workout: practice jumping back and forth over a two-foot bench. You may have to start slowly, but eventually you’ll be able to jump higher as you jump back and forth without stopping.

Add this to a regimen of strength training, you will increase both your vertical jump and your quickness.