How to Jump Higher for Kids

Children can increase their vertical jump for sports such as basketball, soccer or gymnastics. Start a training regimen early in your athletic career to propel you ahead of the competition. Develop muscle strength and endurance in the thigh and calf muscles by exercising on a consistent basis. Before starting any athletic training program, be sure to consult a physician.

Things You'll Need

  • Jump rope
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Instructions

    • 1

      Skip rope. Jumping rope helps to develop strength, agility and speed. Make sure the jump rope is the proper length by standing with your feet in the center of the rope and pulling up both ends. The jump rope handle should come up to your arm pits. Jump slowly and easily, developing a rhythm. Increase jumping speed as your workout progresses. Use a speed rope to get the best workout.

    • 2

      Do plyometric exercise. Plyometric movements are explosive exercises designed to develop muscular strength and power, which improves your jumping ability. Squat down and hold this position for three to five seconds before leaping as high as you can. Jump again immediately upon landing. Repeat the two-jump movement until you tire.

    • 3

      Sprint to gain leg strength and increase your vertical leap. Run at a high rate of speed until you feel fatigued. Rest between sets, and resume sprinting. Sprint only two to three times per week to allow your body to recover from the intense workouts.

    • 4

      Use special shoes. Athletic Propulsion Labs has introduced a sneaker that claims to increase an athlete's jump by more than 3 inches. The shoe mimics a diving board, funneling energy to the forefoot as you press down before jumping.

    • 5

      Stretching can improve your leaping ability. Warm up with light aerobic exercise to loosen up the muscles and increase blood flow. Seek muscle tension when stretching, but avoid stretching to the point of feeling pain. Never bounce during the movements, and stretch daily before and after athletic activities.