Jumping high in the air is a skill that can lift your value as a basketball player. Elevating off the floor gets you closer to the basket and creates open jump shots. Jumping ability also helps you pass the ball over defenders, rebound and block shots. Some players are natural jumpers, but elevating off the floor takes practice and effort. The harder you work, the higher you can fly.
Training Program
A sure-fire way to improve your basketball elevation is strengthening your lower body. Build up your legs and buttocks, which supply the bulk of the speed and power needed to soar higher. Jumping rope is an easy, effective exercise to build the leg strength that provides maximum elevation. Do squat exercises and run stairs in the basketball gym. Stand underneath the basket and practice jumping up and slapping the backboard. Chart your jumps and keep track of your progress. Set vertical goals and strive to meet them. Exercise with a Pilates jump board to strengthen your lower body and add explosion to your elevation.
Form and Function
Getting maximum elevation off the basketball floor starts with proper form and technique. Flex your hips out and bend your knees right before the jump. Push off the court on the balls of your feet. Swing one hand up in the air if you are holding the basketball in the other hand. Swing both hands up in the air if your are jumping up for a rebound or blocked shot. Hand action helps propel you higher in the air. Land on the balls of your feet to avoid rolling an ankle or other injury.
Shoe Choice
Wearing basketball shoes that fit properly and provide good support help get you up to the rim. There are a wide range of basketball shoes on the market, so make sure you purchase a pair that fits properly and offers firm support. According to Dick's Sporting Goods, most basketball players wear high-top basketball shoes. High tops provide the ankle support needed to get off the floor and cushion the landing. The outer sole of the shoe is also important. Outer soles are designed for indoor or outdoor basketball, so make the right choice. Solid shoe bottoms provide traction and grip the basketball floor, helping you push off and elevate into the air.
Watch and Learn
Studying the greatest jumpers in basketball history can help take your game to a higher level. Watch videos of NBA players such as Michael Jordan, Julius "Dr. J" Erving and Dominique Wilkins. Jordan, Erving and Wilkins became famous for their ability to seemingly stay suspended in the air. Study the all-time greats and try imitating their form and jumping technique. Focus on their legs and feet as they push off the floor and get into the jump. Notice the way they used their arms to extend the elevation. Film your own jumping technique during practice or a game and compare yourself to players such as Jordan. Do not expect to elevate as high as Jordan, but compare and contrast your styles and make necessary adjustments.
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