Vertical Leap Calculator - Measure Jump Height & Athletic Power
Calculate your vertical leap height, jump power, and athletic performance metrics for sports training and fitness assessment.
Vertical Leap Calculator
Your Vertical Leap Results
What is a Vertical Leap Calculator?
A Vertical Leap Calculator is a sports performance tool that measures your vertical jump height and related athletic metrics. It calculates the maximum height you can jump vertically, which is crucial for sports like basketball, volleyball, and track & field.
This calculator works for:
- Athletic assessment - Measure jumping ability and track progress
- Sports training - Basketball, volleyball, football, track & field
- Fitness testing - Evaluate explosive power and lower body strength
How Vertical Leap Calculation Works
The calculation uses the basic vertical leap formula:
Additional calculations:
- Flight Time = √(2 × Leap Height / g) where g = 32.2 ft/s²
- Takeoff Velocity = g × Flight Time / 2
- Peak Power = Body Weight × Velocity × g (if weight provided)
Key Concepts Explained
Standing Reach
Maximum height you can reach while standing flat-footed.
Jump Reach
Maximum height reached during a vertical jump with arm extension.
How to Use This Calculator
Measure Standing Reach
Stand against wall, reach as high as possible
Measure Jump Reach
Jump vertically, mark highest reach point
Optional Weight
Enter body weight for power calculations
Get Results
View your vertical leap metrics
Benefits of Vertical Leap Measurement
- • Athletic Assessment: Quantify explosive power and lower body strength.
- • Track Progress: Monitor improvements in jumping ability over time.
- • Sports Performance: Essential metric for basketball, volleyball, and football.
- • Training Goals: Set specific targets for athletic development programs.
Factors That Affect Your Results
1. Technique
Proper jumping form, arm swing, and landing mechanics affect results.
2. Strength & Power
Lower body strength, explosive power, and core stability influence jump height.
3. Measurement Accuracy
Precise measurement of standing reach and jump reach is crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is vertical leap and how is it measured?
A: Vertical leap is the maximum height an athlete can jump vertically, measured as the difference between standing reach and maximum jump reach. It's a key athletic performance metric for sports like basketball, volleyball, and track & field.
Q: How do you calculate vertical leap?
A: Vertical leap height is calculated by subtracting standing reach from maximum jump reach: Vertical Leap = Jump Reach - Standing Reach. This gives the actual height gained during the jump.
Q: What is considered a good vertical leap?
A: Average vertical leap for men is 16-20 inches (40-50 cm), for women 12-16 inches (30-40 cm). Elite athletes can achieve 28+ inches (70+ cm) for men and 20+ inches (50+ cm) for women.
Q: How can I improve my vertical leap?
A: Improve vertical leap through strength training (squats, deadlifts), plyometrics (box jumps, depth jumps), proper technique, and consistent practice. Core strength, explosive power, and flexibility are also crucial.