It is the most celebrated shot in the game of basketball. It is the dream of the average player and it is an in-the-face “statement” that a good player makes to the other team. It is the slam dunk. We all know WHAT it is, and most of us WISH we could do it. But how do you dunk a basketball?
Before We Start
Before an average player can even think about dunking, he should take an inventory and be realistic. A player’s height and his athletic abilities are the two main factors in determining if he will ever be able to dunk. We’re not saying it isn’t possible, but there are very few short players that will ever be able to jump high enough to dunk. In fact, even a six foot player will have to have above-average jumping ability in order to be able to dunk. Be realistic in your goals. At the same time, don’t limit yourself before you even get started. Many people have made amazing increases in their vertical jumping ability. It takes hard work, but you can reap the rewards.
Things you should evaluate before starting:
1.) Is lack of height a problem? This won’t change. You CAN increase your vertical leap, but you still might never be able to dunk a ball. But, that is alright! You should develop other areas of your game.
2.) Are you carrying too much weight? By carrying more weight than you should, you are limiting your jumping ability.
3.) How athletic are you in general? Some players are just gifted at being able to jump. You can develop it as well, but understand where you are starting. Get a messurement of your vertical leap before you start so you know how you are progressing.
4.) What kind of shape are you in? Jumping uses muscle groups from the whole body. Just having strong legs alone is not enough.
Let’s Get Started
Begin by making sure you are in the best overall shape you can be. This includes every area of your body as well as your legs. To ensure you can reach your ultimate jumping potential, you need to start in good overall shape. You use your entire body while jumping, so it stands to reason that your entire body should be in shape. While this part of the process isn’t glamorous, it is necessary. A good foundation is necessary for the best results. Start here and you will be rewarded down the road.
For the remainder of the article on How To Dunk a Basketball, click here, or see our Vertical Jump Program Reviews
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