Jump Programs That Really Work

Fans of pro basketball may not yet know of any slam dunk jump programs, but they are certainly familiar with some of the great names to come out of the sport. Players like Julius Erving, Wilt Chamberlain and of course Michael Jordan are synonymous with the game, and all of those players shared a tremendous gift: the ability to take flight on a basketball court.

For mere mortals like the rest of us, a vertical leaping ability to rival the greats may not be in the cards, but there are ways to improve how high we can jump. Fire up a search online on the subject, and you'll find yourself looking at a number of results offering jump programs. Three prominent jump program options that you'll keep running into on such a search are Power Vertical, Jump Manual and The Vertical Project.

If you'd consider yourself to be in the market for any of these programs, choosing the best one for the money may not be an easy chore. Internet review sites logically pimp whichever program they're affiliated with, and are thus motivated to profit off you above all else.

One way to avoid relying on biased online reviews would be to find a way to talk directly with other athletes about which program or programs they've used to help them increase their vertical jumping ability. They don't have to be pro athletes either. Show up at a local junior college basketball game or volleyball game, on a night that you have off, and network with those players.

You can also find posting forums online where those types of athletes hang out. Take some time to identify the true independent voices offering substantive advice about the sport itself, and then approach those voices with your questions about which jump programs that you're considering might be right for you.

Of course, if you're on a team already, hit up some of your teammates, your coaches and even your opponents for info on whether they use jump programs, and if so, which ones?

Lastly, remember that if you make the leap and buy a jump program, know that no single program will necessarily work for every athlete. Hedge your investment by going with a jump program that comes with a refund guarantee or trial period. Be honest with yourself and make the right decision for you and your body with any jump program, and if it doesn't suit your style, ship 'er back!