Oftentimes, jumps can be looked over in the training process. Take your team to the next level by incorporating these specific drills into your summer practices. With these simple exercises, your team can reach NEW HEIGHTS!

V-Ups

Let’s begin with V-Ups. For this technique, start on the ground lying on your back side. Place your arms in a touchdown motion above your head. Swiftly, lift your legs and arms into a toe touch position, and then snap back to your starting position. The focus of this exercise is body control and speed. Make sure to keep your toes pointed, legs straight, and your back upright.  Repeat this exercise 10 times, completing 3 sets.

Straight Jumps

Next, we have straight jumps. This drill helps your athletes succeed in overall height and leg strength. You begin with your feet together, taking a slow dip, and then exploding into the air as fast as you can. Use you arms to help gain momentum.  Remember, as you land, absorb gently and come back down into your starting position. Only start with 3 sets of 5 controlled jumps, and then increase your repetitions to ten in a row for better execution.

Leg Lifts

Finally, we have leg lifts. This exercise isolates your hip flexors. All athletes should begin in the straddle position on the ground. Then place your hands on the floor between your knees and lift one leg two inches off the ground. Maintain this height as you lift your leg up and down. Keep your leg straight and your toes pointed, always. Repeat with the other leg. Do this drill 5 times for 4 set, alternating each leg in the air. As you gain more strength, increase your repetitions, and even try to lift both legs simultaneously. 

With training for jumps, athletes also need to be flexible. Stretching keeps those muscles in the best shape, not risking any injury. Make sure your team is rigorously gaining strength within your hamstrings and hip flexors for the best outcome. 

Try to use each of these drills to perfect your jump technique. It will give you the opportunity to gain those extra tenths of a point that truly matter during competition season. Be patient and be consistent to help mold your best team this year!

Take your jumps to new heights! Try the Varsity Fit Training Guide!