Abstract

The vertical jump (VJ) serves as a crucial indicator of explosive power in sports like volleyball, basketball, and track and field. Yet, evaluating jump height alone does not sufficiently capture the complex neuromuscular and biomechanical factors that influence performance. This narrative review explores the essential performance metrics and modern assessment techniques that allow for deeper analysis of VJ mechanics and more personalized training approaches. A central focus is placed on force–velocity (F–v) profiling, which dissects jump output into theoretical maximum force (F₀), maximum velocity (V₀), and peak power (Pmax). Additional assessments—including comparisons between squat and countermovement jumps, the eccentric utilization ratio, rate of force development (RFD), reactive strength index (RSI), and kinetic data analysis—help identify specific strengths and limitations in athletes. Integrating these insights enables practitioners to categorize athletes as force-deficient, velocity-deficient, or balanced, guiding tailored interventions to enhance jump performance. Practical recommendations are presented for translating these diagnostics into effective, targeted training plans, thus bridging the gap between assessment and individualized performance development.

Keywords

vertical jump performance, force–velocity profiling, neuromuscular assessment, reactive strength index, individualized training