The vertical jump test is a way we can assess a client’s lower body power. We use this particularly with athletes, as this information helps shape athletic training strategies and goals. It can also help the athlete better understand their physical performance for their sport.
The way we measure the vertical jump is with a Hawkin Dynamics force plate. The athlete will perform the jump on the force plate, and the plate will gather information on the jump. It evaluates things like jump height, power (the rate the jumper performs work), and velocity (how fast the jumper moves and the direction they move in). All of these insights can give us a good picture of neuromuscular performance and explosivity. These insights can also serve as a measure to track progress.
There is lots to learn on the science behind the force plates and the way it calculates all the information it finds. If you want to learn more about the different phases of the vertical jump and how it calculates force, power, and velocity, Hawkin Dynamics’ website gives a great description.
