People playing athletics, especially basketball, volleyball, soccer, and football, are frequently interested in finding a way to increase their vertical leap. There are many exercises and programs available that are specially designed for improving a person’s jumping ability. Before proceeding with any of these programs though, you ought to at least be in good overall physical shape. Here we go over a few exercises that someone could begin with before undertaking a training program. These will help get you started.
Warm Ups
Prior to starting the exercises, you need to warm your muscles up. 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 prior to doing exercises helps you develop muscle fibers that are utilized during the jumping process.
Skipping Rope
Skipping rope is an exercise that should not be overlooked, as it can contribute to improving the strength of your legs. Moreover, it helps maintain excellent cardiovascular condition. Do this exercise for 15 to thirty minutes on a regular basis.
Knee Raises
Grab an overhead bar firmly, with your arms straight overhead. Hang from the overhead bar, with your arms fully extended and knees slightly bent. Hold this position and slowly pull your knees up to your chest. Concentrate on contracting your stomach muscles while doing this. Hold this position for several seconds, before lowering your legs towards the floor. Repeat the process 5 times.
Knee Bends
One of the best exercises to improve your leg strength is with knee bends (also know as squats). Stand upright – straight, with chest out and with your back straight. Proceed to bend your knees slowly, keeping the back straight. Squat, in a slow movement, to the maximum possible extent. 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 stance for a couple seconds. Do this exercise slowly and do not “bounce” while trying to reach your toes. Do this 30 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, curl the shoulders off the floor, in a slow movement. Continue to sit up. Try to not “pull” on your head with your hands. Concentrate on your stomach doing the work. Exercises for your midsection are important for all physical activity as your ultimate all around strength and flexibility start here. Repeat this 10-20 times.
To get the most out of your vertical jumping exercises, you should consider a vertical jump training program. Check out these Vertical Jump Program Reviews to check which are rated the best and to find more information on Improving Your Vertical Jump.