People involved in sports, especially basketball, volleyball, soccer, and football, are often interested in finding a way to increase their vertical leap. There are many exercises and programs existing that are specially designed for improving a person’s jumping ability. Before starting any of these programs though, you should at least be in good overall physical condition. Here we list a few exercises that someone could start with before undertaking a training program. These will help get you started.
Warm Ups
Prior to beginning any exercises, you should 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 increasing the strength of your legs. It also helps maintain excellent cardiovascular condition. Do this exercise for fifteen to 30 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 bent slightly. Hold this position and slowly raise your knees up to your chest. Squeeze your stomach muscles during this process. Maintain this position for several seconds, before lowering your legs back down. Repeat the process five times.
Knee Bends
One of the best ways to increase 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, as far down as possible. Repeat this exercise 20 times.
Toe Touches
Stand straight. 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. Maintain this position for a few seconds. Do this exercise slowly and do not “bounce” while trying to reach your toes. Repeat this 30 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 the shoulders from the floor, in a slow movement. Continue to sit up. Do not “pull” on the back of your head with your hands. Concentrate on making your stomach do 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 must consider a vertical jump training program. Check out these Vertical Jump Program Reviews to see which are rated the best and to get more information on How To Improve Your Vertical.
Tags: how to jump higher, improve vertical jump, increase vertical jump, jumping exercises