If you're into a sport that requires you to jump explosively and at high vertical distances such as basketball, then doing jump training drills will greatly improve your performance. With constant practice, it's actually possible to increase the height of your vertical jumps and make your legs stronger at the same time. These drills are also a great way to prevent leg injuries from occurring during your actual game. Jump training drills are usually performed for a maximum of two times per week so as not to put undue stress on the legs. In any activity that involves jumping, always pay attention to how you land to minimize impact and prevent strain or injury.

Ankle jumps are great to start off your jump training session. Begin in a standing position. Raise your arms straight over head. Keeping your knees slightly bent and arms extended above your head, do quick and precise bounces off of your toes. Try to land in the same spot on the ground every time.

Doing tuck jumps is another way of improving the vertical height of your jump. To begin this exercise, stand in a semi-squat with your hands held out in front of you to keep your balance. Keep your hips back and your knees over toes and your shoulders over your knees. Try to jump as high as you can while bringing your knees to your chest at the top of the jump. When you land, do so by keeping your hips back and your shoulders over your knees. Your landing must be soft and controlled. Hold your landing position for a couple of seconds before repeating the jump.

Squat jumps are also a great way to put more power to your jumps. Your starting position should be a squat with your feet shoulder-width apart and your hands touching the ground in front of your toes. Keep your knees bent about 90 degrees and they must be directly over your toes with your hips sitting back. Keep your chest positioned directly over the middle of your thighs. Jump as high as you can in an explosive motion. Keep your landing soft and under control by keeping your hips back and your knees over your toes in the starting position. Repeat the jump as soon as you land.

Broad jumps are not only great exercises for long jumpers. They are also good for athletes in other sporting disciplines as well. Stand with your toes on a line keeping your feet shoulder-width apart. Place your hands front of you for balance. Bend down but keep your feet steady. Rock back and jump forward as far as you can, using your arms to propel your distance. Land softly and hold for a second. Try to do 5 broad jumps.

When you perform these jump training drills on a regular basis, you should be able to see improvement in your vertical jumps after a short while. You'll also notice that your leg muscles have become stronger and are less prone to injuries and strains.