Vertical Jump Calculator

Measure your vertical jump and see how it compares to athletic benchmarks — free and instant.

Measurement method

Standing reach Fingertips reached overhead, feet flat.

Jump touch height Highest point touched at peak jump.

Compare against

Your vertical jump

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Benchmark Comparison

Level	Vertical jump

Vertical jump is one of the clearest single measures of lower-body power. This calculator gets you a number two ways — either from the classic reach-and-touch test, or by entering a jump height you've already measured with a jump mat or app.

How to measure your vertical jump

The standing reach method

Stand flat-footed next to a wall and reach straight up with one arm. Mark or measure that height — this is your standing reach.
From a stationary position (no running start), jump as high as you can and touch the wall or a marked surface at the peak of your jump.
Subtract your standing reach from your jump touch height. The difference is your vertical jump.

For the most consistent results, use a countermovement jump (a quick dip before jumping) rather than a static jump, and take the best of 3–5 attempts with full recovery between each.

How to improve your vertical jump

Strength training: squats, deadlifts, and hip thrusts build the raw force production behind a jump
Plyometrics: box jumps, depth jumps, and bounding train your body to apply force quickly
Technique: arm swing, dip depth, and takeoff angle can add inches without any added strength
Bodyweight management: excess bodyweight directly reduces jump height for a given amount of leg power

Sport-specific benchmarks

Vertical jump norms vary meaningfully by sport. Basketball and volleyball athletes, where vertical explosiveness is directly rewarded, tend to post noticeably higher averages than the general athletic population. Use the sport selector above to see how your number compares to athletes who train specifically for jump height.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an average vertical jump?

For the general adult population, a vertical jump in the 16–20 inch range is common. Trained athletes in jump-heavy sports like basketball and volleyball often average considerably higher, commonly in the 24–30+ inch range.

Does a running start count as my vertical jump?

Standard vertical jump testing uses a stationary jump with no running start — often called a countermovement jump. A running or approach jump will measure higher but isn't comparable to standard benchmarks, which assume a stationary start.

How much can I realistically improve my vertical jump?

With consistent strength and plyometric training over several months, gains of 2–6 inches are realistic for most athletes, with larger gains typically seen in those newer to structured training. Progress slows as you approach your individual ceiling.