How to Build a Box or Box Jumps

Workout boxes can come in a multitude of shapes and sizes. Different workout regimens require different sized boxes. These types of boxes can be great for increasing verticals, speed training and plyometric training. For example, a box could be built to be 12 inches high, but the process would be the same for building taller or shorter boxes. The only things that would change would be the size of the plywood pieces and the number of screws needed.

Things You'll Need

  • 1 sheet (4' x 8' x 3/4") plywood
  • 20 decking screws (2")
  • Wood glue
  • Textured paint (optional)
  • Skill saw or table saw
  • Drill
  • Tape measure
  • Chalk line
  • Pencil
  • Sandpaper and/or electric sander
  • Wood putty
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Instructions

    • 1

      Mark and cut the four identical 12-inch-by-24-inch pieces for the sides and one 24-by-24 piece for the top. Start by chalking your cut lines on the plywood. Use the measuring tape along the 4-foot edge and make a mark with the pencil every 12 inches. Repeat this on the opposite edge.

    • 2

      Using the chalk line, connect the marks that you just made on either end of the plywood. There should be three chalk lines perpendicular to the 4-foot edge. Repeat this process along the 8-foot edge, but instead of making a mark every 12 inches, make a mark every 24 inches.

    • 3

      Connect the marks again with the chalk line. Once the chalk grid is made, simply use a skill saw to cut the four sides and the top. A table saw could also be used to cut the plywood.

    • 4

      Assemble the sides to the top piece of the box. First lay one of the side pieces on a flat surface. Apply a bead of wood glue along one of its longer edges. Stand the 24-by-24 top piece perpendicular to the side piece and press together. Make sure the edges are flush.

    • 5

      Use a drill and four decking screws to attach the two pieces. Repeat this step with the three other side pieces, but remember to apply wood glue along all butt joints -- wherever wood is toughing wood.

    • 6

      Screw the side pieces together with the decking screws after the sides are attached to the top piece. Three screws per side should suffice. Wipe away any excess wood glue and allow it to dry.

    • 7

      Sand down any rough areas along the sides that could cause splinters once the glue is dry. An electric sander is faster and less work, but if you do not have one, you can simply use sandpaper and a wood block. Do not sand the top of the box unless you plan on adding textured paint or some other abrasive device.

    • 8

      Check the stability of the box before jumping on it. Sit or stand on the box slowly to test the durability. If more durability is needed, simply measure and cut another 24-by-24 piece of plywood and attach to the bottom with decking screws.