Jumping Exercises

Training sequence

The following is a training sequence to use in training for jumps. The sequence trains each component of the jump, starting with the feet, and then it trains the jump itself.

• Warm-up. First, perform some light warm-up exercises.
• Stretch. Then perform some light stretches, finishing with some lower back and leg stretches.
• Starting/Landing Position. Stand in your fighting stance with the arms held in guard position. Start with the feet a shoulder apart. Instead of keeping the feet parallel, stand with the feet with a comfortable, natural angle between them.
• Repetitions. Repeat each exercise until it becomes difficult to perform the movement smoothly and perfectly. When fatigue sets in, form suffers and you are then training the muscles to perform in an undesired manner. Stretch the legs between component exercises if necessary.

REMEMBER. The arms are used to guard, block, and attack, they are not used to add height to a jump and they are not waved about to maintain balance. If you train using your arms to pump for a jump, you will do it while sparring and will telegraph your intention to jump to your opponent. If you reach up for a jump, you expose yourself to a counterattack.