Top Methods for Measuring Your Vertical Jump

The ability to jump vertically is a crucial skill for sports like basketball, volleyball, and certain track and field events. A strong vertical jump requires explosive power from your leg and back muscles. If you're working on improving your vertical jump height, accurately measuring your jump is key to tracking progress over time.

Here are two effective methods to measure your vertical jump one using chalk and a wall, and the other using a specialized tool called a vertec.

Method 1: Chalk and Wall Technique

This simple and affordable method only requires chalk and access to a tall, flat wall. Here's how to measure your jump:

1. Prepare Your Chalk:
   Cover the fingertips of one hand with chalk to leave visible marks on the wall.

2. Measure Your Standing Reach:

   • Stand sideways next to the wall, keeping your feet flat on the ground.

   • Extend your chalk-covered hand as high as possible and mark your standing reach height on the wall.

3. Jump and Mark Your Highest Reach:

   • Reapply chalk to your fingers.

   • Jump straight up from the same spot, reaching as high as possible, and mark the wall at the peak of your jump.

   • Perform this jump three times and make a mark for each attempt.

4. Measure and Calculate:

   • Measure the height of your standing reach mark.

   • Then measure the height of your highest jump mark.

   • Subtract your standing reach height from your highest jump height. This number represents your vertical jump.

This method is straightforward and works well for tracking your progress over time. Just make sure to jump from the same position each time to maintain consistency.

Method 2: Using a Vertec Vertical Jump Tester

The vertec is a popular vertical jump measurement tool used by sports organizations, including the NFL. It provides an accurate way to measure your vertical jump and is often found in training facilities. Here’s how to use it:

1. Set Up the Vertec:

   • Place the vertec on a stable surface with enough room to jump and land safely.

   • Ensure there’s no risk of hitting nearby objects during the jump.

2. Measure Your Standing Reach:

   • Stand against a wall and measure your reach using a tape measure.

   • Reach as high as possible to ensure accuracy.

3. Adjust the Vertec:

   • Set the vertec so the bottom peg is exactly 10 inches above your standing reach height.

   • Straighten all the pegs outward using the vertec stick.

4. Perform Your Vertical Jump:

   • Stand underneath the vertec. From a standing position (no running starts), jump as high as you can.

   • At the peak of your jump, reach to move as many pegs as possible. Avoid swatting at the pegs to ensure accuracy aim to touch the highest point of your jump naturally.

5. Record Your Results:

   • Push all the moved pegs, as well as those below the highest one, inward to the vertec.

   • Straighten the remaining pegs for your next attempt.

   • Repeat until you can no longer touch any pegs during your jump.

The highest peg you touch marks the height of your vertical jump. The vertec allows for precise measurements and is ideal for athletes who want to gauge their performance with accuracy.

Which Method Should You Use?

The chalk and wall technique is perfect for beginners or those without access to specialized equipment. It's cost-effective and easy to set up.

The vertec, on the other hand, offers a more professional approach and is ideal for athletes who want precise measurements or are training in a facility with the necessary equipment.

Tips to Improve Your Vertical Jump

Regardless of how you measure your jump, consistent training can help you see results. Here are a few tips to increase your vertical leap:

• Incorporate Plyometric Exercises: Perform box jumps, squat jumps, and depth jumps to build explosive power.

• Strengthen Your Lower Body: Focus on exercises like squats, lunges, and deadlifts to increase leg strength.

• Improve Core Stability: A strong core supports efficient movement and enhances overall jumping ability.

• Stretch and Mobilize: Regular stretching and mobility work can improve flexibility and prevent injury.

Tracking your vertical jump over time will give you a clear picture of your progress and help you stay motivated as you reach new heights literally! Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates.