An interesting study was published in this months JSCR. The study examined lower body dimensions and body composition and their effects on jump height.

What did the authors do?[1]

Took 25 men and 25 women and took a bunch of body dimensions and took their body fat and body weight Some of the dimensions measured included: Q-angle (quadriceps angle), hip width, lower limb lengths, foot dimensions, body fat, height, and body weight



What were the results?[1]

Body fat % explained more variability in jump height than any other variable

Body fat % explained 57% of the variance in jump height

Body fat % + body weight or sex explained the greatest amount of variability

Body fat % + body weight or sex explained 66% of the variability in jump height

Body fat % is negatively associated with jump height due to the added weight without additional force production (fat doesn’t help you move!)

Increasing lean mass (body weight) can help you jump higher as long as there is a balance between muscle and fat gain.

Summary: Focusing on body re-composition can be a very effective tool in improving jump height.