Nikki Barrera

11/30/16

HSES 369

Vertical Jump

Purpose: Analyze the contribution of the sequence of joint angles to force and motion in a

standing vertical jump

Method: For the vertical jump to occur the joints must be able to go through a large range of

motion. During the stance phase the head is facing forward, arms are down at the sides of the

body, knees are almost fully flexed and the spine is at 180 degrees, while the feet are shoulder

length apart. Next, the prep phase occurs. The hips extend backwards, arms extend backwards

45-60 degrees, knees are bent between 60 and 90 degrees, dorsiflexion of the ankles, and the

head is slightly extended upwards. During takeoff phase you will see extension of the arms,

which involves the latissmus dorsi, deltoid, and teres major. Flexion of the arms involving the

pectoralis major, deltoid, brachioradialis, and biceps brachii. Extension of the hip includes:

biceps femoris semimembranosus, semitendonosus, and gluteus maximus. When the flexion at

the knee occurs the hamstrings, gracilis, Sartorius, tensor fascia latae, gastrocnemius, and

popliteus are involved. Plantar flexion of the ankles and feet occur. Extension at the knees using

the quadriceps. And lastly, dorsiflexion of the ankles and feet.

 Phase One Phase Two Phase Three

Results: Joint angles play a big part in the amount of force produced and the types of motion.

With a vertical jump you get a full range of motion when implementing the use of legs, arms,

hips, and knees.

Practical Applications:

The vertical jump test is used in many sports: tennis, football, volleyball, basketball, etc.

Rebounding, blocking in volleyball and basketball, receiving a football pass, and jumping up to

hit a tennis ball. Coaches and players need to be able to analyze the proper form and movement

of a vertical jump in order to help the players improve their skills to perform their best.