Recipe for a Jumper
Posted on Dec 05, 2007 under Physical Game |In volleyball everyone is looking to jump a little higher to gain the edge on the opposition. Understanding what goes into being a great jumper will help you cook up a plan for developing your players’ abilities to make the leap to the next level.
Genetics
Unfortunately, the biggest part of a person’s ability to jump is found in their genetics. The percentage of fast twitch muscles, the location of attachment of the Achilles tendon to the heel, and a person’s weight to muscle ratio are examples of genetic predispositions for great jumpers. Each of these factors points to the idea that great leapers are born, and not made.
Do not fret if your players are naturally Earth-bound by their genes. The following factors can be controlled by the athletes and can raise the level of any player.
Proper Training
Proper training and good technique cannot be substituted for when attempting to improve an athlete’s ability to jump. A player must have a strength and conditioning coach who knows her specific abilities and goals. A plan, combining cardiovascular, weight, and plyometric training, can be implemented to increase the body’s strength and develop existing fast twitch muscles. Teaching proper jumping technique is the final element of training that will aid players in their ability to defeat the evil forces of gravity.
Important Muscle Groups
The second most important factor in a person’s ability to jump is the strength of the muscles used in the motion of jumping. The gluteus maximus, quadriceps, hamstrings, and core muscles make up the physical foundation of a good leaper. The calves are also used, but have a minor contribution compared with the other parts of the body.
Increasing strength in these muscles is a huge factor in fully developing an athlete’s jumping potential.
Intangibles
Finally, what will separate the good jumpers from the great will be the athletes’ desire and work ethic. These two characteristics often define winners and losers. If an athlete really wants to improve herself (in any way), desire and hard work must be her constant companion.
These characteristics are exemplified by the following quote, “Some succeed because they are destined to, but most succeed because they are determined to.” Regardless of genetic makeup, an athlete can go from an average jumper to a good jumper or a good jumper to a great jumper. Laying out a plan to combine the ingredients listed above is a good start to cooking up a player that will rise above the competition