How to Measure Vertical Jump

How to Measure Vertical Jump Accurately

If you’re wondering how to measure your vertical jump, the key is consistency. Proper vertical jump testing requires a standardized setup, a correct standing reach measurement, and using the same method every time. Whether you want to know how to measure vertical jump at home or how professionals test it using advanced vertical jump testing equipment, this blog covers everything.

Method 1: How to Test Vertical Jump at Home (Wall & Chalk)

This is the simplest and most reliable setup:

• Put chalk or tape on your fingertips
• Mark your standing reach
• Jump and hit the wall at peak height
• Measure the distance between marks

That difference is your vertical jump test result.

This method remains one of the most practical forms of vertical jump testing because it directly measures reach height.

Method 2: How to Measure Vertical Jump with Vertec

A Vertec is common vertical jump testing equipment used in combines and performance labs.

How it works

• Adjust the vanes to your standing reach
• Jump and swipe the highest vane possible
• Read the height directly from the vertec

If you’re researching how to measure vertical jump with Vertec, understand that it measures reach-based height just like wall and chalk, but with greater consistency and it's more fun.

Method 3: Jump Mat / Force Plate

A vertical jump test mat or force plate calculates jump height using flight time.

Process:

• Stand on the mat
• Perform a maximal jump
• The system estimates your vert from airtime

This form of vertical jump testing equipment is fast and convenient, but results are calculated differently than reach-based methods. Do not mix test types when tracking progress.

Vertical Jump Testing Methods Compared

How to Measure a Vertical Jump (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Measure Standing Reach

Standing reach is how high you can reach when flat-footed with your arm fully extended.

1. Stand sideways next to a wall
2. Keep both feet flat
3. Reach up with your dominant arm fully
4. Mark the highest point
5. Measure from floor to mark

Step 2: Measure Max Jump Reach

This determines how high you actually jump.

1) Standing vertical jump (CMJ)

1. Feet about shoulder-width apart
2. Triple extension (hips, knees, ankles)
3. Swing arms explosively
4. Jump maximal effort
5. Mark the highest point

2) Running vertical jump

1. Take three controlled approach steps
2. Plant your takeoff foot with force
3. Swing arms explosively
4. Drive knee upward
5. Mark the highest point

If your approach jump is only slightly higher than your standing jump, technique improvement may increase your vertical leap significantly.

Step 3: Calculate Vertical Jump Height

Vertical jump height = max jump reach - standing reach

Example:

• Standing reach: 8'0"
• Max jump reach: 10'6"
• Vertical jump: 10'6" - 8'0" = 30"

Always log both values for reliable vertical jump testing progress.

What Kinds of Other Vertical Jump Tests Exist?

Track both, but don’t compare them directly. They’re different tests and measure different athletic qualities.

How Often Should You Test Your Vertical Jump?

For consistent data:

• Test every 4 weeks
• Use the same method
• Same court & shoes
• Same warm-up
• Same jump style

Standardization is more important than equipment.

Common Vertical Jump Testing Errors

Quick Answer

If you want to know how to measure vertical jump correctly, measure your standing reach, measure your max jump reach, and subtract the difference. Use the same vertical jump testing method every time, whether that’s wall and chalk, Vertec, or a vertical jump test mat.