Biomechanics of Vertical Jumping

Phases of vertical jump

1. Preparatory or Down phase
2. Propulsive or Up phase
3. Flight phase

1. Preparatory phase

In preparatory phase, potential energy for jumping absorped by eccentric or lengthening contraction.

• Ankle dorsiflexion - Eccentric contraction or lengthening of calf muscles.
• Knee flexion - Eccentric contraction or lengthening of quadriceps muscle.
• Hip flexion - Eccentric contraction or lengthening of gluteus and upper hamstring.
• Shoulder hyperextension - active shoulder extension.

2. Propulsive phase

Potential energy created during preparatory phase is converted into kinetic energy, because of stretch shortening cycle.

• Ankle plantar flexion - concentric contraction of calf muscles (recoiling effect).
• Knee extension - concentric contraction of quadriceps muscle.
• Hip extension - concentric contraction of hipnextensors.
• Shoulder starts flex forward

3. Flight phase

Flight phase occurs at end of preparatory phase and beginning of propulsive phase. It is explosive movement in which body is accelerated upward rapidly.

Factor affecting jump performance

Modifiable factors

1. Relative strength
2. Rate of force development
3. Reactive strength

Non modifiable

1. Age
2. Genetics

1. James. E. Zachazewski, David. J. Magee., Athletic injuries and rehabilitation
2. J Perez Gomez et al., Training methods to improve vertical jump performance., (2014).→
3. Fotini Arabatzi?et al., Vertical jump biomechanics after plyometric, weight lifting, and combined (weight lifting and plyometric) training., (2010).→

Creator Details

Name	:	Deva senathipathi
Qualifications	:	Physiotherapist