Vertical Jump and Leg Power Norms for Young Adults

Abstract

Medical students and their spouses (N= 724) served as participants to create norm-referenced vertical jump values for active, healthy people ages 21–30. All tests were conducted and measured by thesameindividual during a campus fitness evaluation using a Vertec^TM apparatus.Jumpheightwas measured to the nearest 0.5 in.Meanjump height was similar throughout this age range within each gender. Mean jump scores, for men were 21–25 years = 22.2±3.5; 26–30 years = 21.9±3.3; and for women were 21–25 years = 14.1±2.5; 26–30 years = 14.0±2.4. From jump data, power and peak power were calculated. In this group of active individuals in their 20s, no decline in vertical jump success or power outputwas found between 21–25 and 26–30 year old groups.A table of norm-referenced values, based on percentiles,was developed that will be useful in comparing normal, active individuals in this age group to select individuals for whom leg power is an important performance measure.