People involved in sports, especially basketball, football, volleyball, and soccer, are frequently looking for ways to increase their vertical jump. There are many exercises and programs existing that are specially designed for improving a person’s vertical leap. Before proceeding with any of these programs though, you ought to at least be in fair general physical condition. Here we list 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 should warm your muscles up. Try jogging around for ten minutes or run up and down s few sets of stairs. It is also a good idea to stretch your muscles prior to beginning your exercises. Warming up prior to exercising 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 will contribute to improving the strength of your legs. Moreover, it promotes maintaining excellent cardiovascular condition. Perform this exercise for 15 to thirty minutes regularly.
Knee Raises
Hold an overhead bar firmly, with your arms straight overhead. Hang from the overhead bar, with your arms fully extended and knees bent slightly. Hold this position and slowly pull your knees towards your chest. Concentrate on contracting your stomach muscles while doing this. Maintain this position for a few seconds, before lowering your legs towards the floor. Repeat the process 5 times.
Knee Bends
One of the best exercises to increase your leg strength is with knee bends (also know as squats). Stand upright – straight, with chest out and keeping your back tight. Now, bend your knees slowly, keeping the back straight. Squat, in a slow action, as far down as possible. 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 and try to touch your toes with your fingers. Hold this position for a few seconds. Do this exercise slowly and avoid “bouncing” while trying to reach your toes. Do this 30 times.
Sit-Ups
Sit-ups will help improve your vertical jump. 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. 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 exercise 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.