Higher Jumps for Slam Dunks

You have trained hard to developed the explosive strength in your legs so that you can jump higher in Basketball. Now you have a higher vertical jump than before you started your program, but are you still reaching your full potential? Many athletes fall short of their ability because they have not worked on the process of jumping itself. There is more to just running and making a jump, there is a technique in all of this.

The more speed you have built up heading into the jump, the higher you will be able to go. With the increased height from the extra speed you will get a longer hang time. As you dribble, pick up the ball about 10 feet out from your target jump off point. Keep driving forward for two steps to set your self up. You should have the ball in one hand if you are able to palm it, otherwise hold it with both hands.

As you near your jump, plant your forward leg and bend it as you lower yourself for the jump. You will want to have the knee of your lead leg either right over your toes or a little ahead of them. The best foot placement is from heel to toe, you will rock forward on to the toes as you push off to help accentuate the momentum. As you push off your toes, simultaneously you must force your leg into the floor and jump upwards. As you become airborne bring your other leg upwards to assist.

Jumping is a whole body event; you do not just jump with your legs you must get your arms involved also. As you make the jump, drive your arms upward to assist propelling your momentum even more. Extend your arm with the ball towards the hoop and reach for the rim. You will need to be able to reach at least 4 to 6 inches higher than the basket or you will just bounce the ball off the rim.

Practice jumping whenever you can because you will get better at it as the moves become second nature to you. You will get to the point where you do not have to think about it, it just happens. Keep on developing your leg strength and increasing the explosive power in your legs so you will continually improve. If you get really good, you will be hanging long enough to do those 360 slams.

For more info on jumping higher for Basketball and Vollyball go to Jump Higher. Tim Archbold's interests are Fitness Training and Health.