Training Tips to Jump Higher to Dunk

James Walston
In the game of basketball, the act of being able to rise above your opponents to jump higher to dunk is a great feeling. One of the exciting things of playing basketball, is to be able to create these moments with control, confidence and with a little bit of flair.

It is very likely that almost all of the pros you see performing the sensational slam dunk will have spent ages practicing this art on the court. If you notice, these players have a tremendous amount of thrust during take off and glide effortlessly thru the air with precision. This skill is well practiced.

Having a great jumping technique will allow you to get above the rim for these amazing shots. For some athletes this ability may come naturally, however, others may have to train hard to achieve these heights. When training to jump higher to dunk, it takes dedication and good discipline.

The type of training for a better vertical is generally for the legs, but other bits of the body play their roles in the entire equation also. Beginning at the bottom, your toes are the last push off point. It is great to build some strength for the toes to generate that extra bit rise in your jump. By rocking on your toes and back down without allowing your heels to touch the floor, you will stretch your calf muscles as well as strengthen your toes.

When you stretch your calves, it increases circulation and makes the muscle stronger. The explosive power behind a great vertical leap comes from the speed, energy and velocity within the muscles. Jumping rope, sprinting and light jogging sessions are all good exercise routines for your muscles which will enable you to leap higher to dunk.

Practicing your jumps from a squatting positions will not only help your calves, but will also strengthen your thighs. You thighs play a very vital role in control along with the abdominal muscles work together to generate the massive power movements. Some other aspects to think about are the arms(which mostly leads the jump) and the shoulder muscles (the drive behind the swinging action). By improving all these aspects you will be able to jump higher to dunk in time. You must consistently practice hard improve your leaping ability and to obtain your goals.

1 Comments

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  • Nicholas Davenport12/15/2009

    Great article for anyone interested in increasing their vertical leap. If you want some more info check out these vertical jump workouts.

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