If you are working to improve your vertical you may be asking the question, am I better off being a one foot jumper or a two foot jumper in basketball? This can really depend on your style of play, but an all around player utilizes both styles of jumps in their game so it is important to work on exercises that optimize both styles of jumping.
Offensively, jumping higher for a jump shot requires a two foot takeoff, while driving through the key for a dunk or layup may work better with a one foot takeoff. Defensively, going straight up to challenge a shot or to grab a rebound is invaluable, but sweeping across the key to apply help defence may require a one foot running jump to block a shot or grab a distant rebound. So you can see how both styles are requirements for a complete game.
When working to improve your vertical with exercises like plyometrics or weight training, the exercises work unilaterally across both legs increasing strength and explosiveness. The real problem that many people run into is a natural tendency towards one style of jumping and they tend to stick towards that style while neglecting the other.
To improve your vertical for both styles of jumping, it may be necessary to actually work on your form. If one style of jumping seems awkward, by simply observing proper form and then practicing that form in jumping training it can become more natural. Once the movements become more natural through repetitive training (and with proper form), players who previously relied on one style will start to adapt and may soon become adept at both jumping styles.
If you are hoping to improve your vertical to help improve your overall basketball game, you may want to consider a program such as The Jump Manual. This program covers everything an individual needs to improve their vertical for both one footed or two footed takeoffs and to help elevate your vertical jumping to the next level. With programs designed for everyone from beginners up to professional athletes all included in this one package it is ideal to help not only improve your vertical, but to also help take your game to the next level.
For more information and to hear Jacob Hiller explain why his program is so effective, visit the Jump Manual Website today and discover how you can increase your vertical jumping ability quickly and effectively.
