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So you want to take your game to the next level? Master the art of jumping. Any great basketball player will tell you that in order to succeed at the games of life and of basketball that you need to elevate and rise no matter what your circumstances may be. You're probably thinking,"I'm no Michael Jordan, that guy was born to fly and I just don't possess his genetics". Well as clich as it may sound- believe and you will achieve. I will show you the secrets to increasing your vertical leap and uncover inane myths regarding jumping and the game of basketball. So strap up those ratty Chuck Taylor's, you weekend warrior you, and learn the art of ascent.

Jumping in the game of basketball requires peak fitness, strength, flexibility, and endurance. For this reason, it is no surprise that modern day basketball players are some of the most physically fit and healthy individuals around. And remember, you are only as strong as your weakest link and a few extra inches on your vertical leap may weed out the other players you'll encounter. Rebounding, scoring, and blocking shots should be an explosive jumper's claims to fame- but in order to explode an athlete must have a strong base to lift off from. In order to build this strong base you must remember this very important tip- do not resist resistance training! I'm not asking you to become Ronnie Coleman but know that by doing power exercises such as heavy squats, dead lifts, and cleans, you will dramatically increase your leaping power. Performing those 3 core power exercises in schemes of 3 sets of 8,6,4 reps respectively, just once a week, will certainly work wonders for anyone trying to build that coveted explosive base. A word of warning; do not skip-out on your hamstrings! I cannot tell you how many young guys will go into the gym expecting to jump higher by doing just calf raises and leg extensions. A common strength training misconception lies in the quads and hamstrings, for instance, the most important muscles for jumping lie in the hamstrings not the calves! The surplus of fast-twitch fibers that reside in our hamstrings simply have the fortitude to fight through the pangs of gravity- an ability that the less flexible and smaller beach muscles possess. Also, do not be afraid to workout your total body weekly, but make sure to focus on these power exercises to maximize your explosive base.

Brick by brick your explosive base is growing, Uncle Jed is even asking "Sonny how

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