People involved in athletics, especially basketball, football, soccer, and volleyball, are often interested in finding a way to improve their vertical leap. There are many drills and programs available that are specifically intended for improving a person’s vertical leap. Before proceeding with any of these programs though, an athlete ought to at least be in fair general physical shape. Here we go over a few exercises that you could begin with before starting a vertical leap program. These will help get you started.
Warm Ups
Prior to starting any exercises, you should warm your muscles up. Try jogging 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 exercising helps you improve muscle fibers that are used for jumping.
Skipping Rope
Jumping rope is an exercise that should not be overlooked, as it will contribute to improving the strength of your legs. Moreover, it helps maintain excellent overall physical condition. Do this exercise for fifteen to thirty minutes on a regular basis.
Knee Raises
Hold an overhead bar firmly, with your arms straight overhead. Hang from the overhead bar, with your arms fully extended and knees slightly bent. Holding this position, slowly pull your knees towards your chest. Concentrate on contracting your stomach muscles during this process. Hold this position for several seconds, before lowering your legs towards the floor. Repeat this 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. Squat, in a slow movement, to the maximum possible extent. Repeat this process 20 times.
Toe Touches
Stand straight. Bend from the waist while keeping your knees locked. Lower yourself down as far as you can go while trying to touch your toes with your fingers. Sustain this stance for a few seconds. Do this exercise slowly and do not “bounce” while trying to reach your toes. Repeat this thirty times.
Sit-Ups
Sit-ups will help improve your vertical leap. Begin with with your back against the floor, with your knees bent, and your feet flat on the floor. Place you hands behind your head. Now, lift your shoulders off the floor, in a slow movement. Continue to sit up. Try to not “pull” on the back of your head with your hands. Focus on making your stomach do the work. Exercises for your midsection are important for all physical activity as it is the “core” area of your body. Repeat this exercise 10-20 times.
To get the most out of your vertical jumping exercises, you ought to consider a vertical jump training program. Check out these Vertical Jump Program Reviews to check which are rated the best and to get more information on How To Jump Higher.
Tags: how to jump higher, improve vertical jump, increase vertical jump, jumping exercises