Learning how to measure your vertical jump takes nothing more than a wall, a bit of chalk, and thirty seconds. Your vertical is one of the clearest measures of lower-body power, which is why coaches in basketball, volleyball, and football track it closely. This guide shows you the two standard ways to measure it, the reach method and the hang-time method, and includes a free vertical jump calculator plus a printable chart with benchmarks and a tracker.
Last updated: July 24, 2026. Your vertical jump is the difference between how high you reach standing and how high you touch at the peak of a jump.
How to Measure Your Vertical Jump: Quick Facts
Last updated: July 24, 2026
- Reach method: jump reach minus standing reach.
- Hang-time method: height (cm) equals 122.6 times air time squared.
- Above average: 16 to 20 inches for most adults.
- Elite: 28 inches and up for trained jumpers.
- Fastest way: use our free vertical jump calculator.
Method 1: The Reach Method
This is how verticals are measured at combines. Stand flat-footed beside a wall, reach up with one hand, and mark the highest point you can touch. That is your standing reach. Next, chalk your fingertips, jump as high as you can, and slap the wall at the top. Measure from your standing mark to your jump mark, and that gap is your vertical. For example, if you touch 90 inches standing and 108 inches jumping, your vertical is 18 inches.
Method 2: The Hang-Time Method
If you have a phone that shoots slow-motion video, you can measure your vertical from your air time. Film yourself jumping from the side, then count how long both feet are off the ground. Jump height in centimeters equals about 122.6 times that hang time in seconds, squared. A hang time of 0.6 seconds works out to roughly 44 cm, or about 17 inches. It is less precise than the reach method but handy when you do not have a wall.
The Fastest Way: Vertical Jump Calculator
Skip the math with our free Vertical Jump Calculator. Switch between the reach method and the hang-time method, enter your numbers in inches or centimeters, and it returns your vertical plus a rating from beginner to elite.
Vertical Jump Benchmarks
| Vertical | Rating |
|---|---|
| Under 12 in | Beginner |
| 16 to 20 in | Above average |
| 24 to 28 in | Excellent |
| 28 in and up | Elite |
The printable chart above adds a full benchmark table, a hang-time conversion guide, and a tracker to log your progress.
More Free Fitness Tools
- Vertical Jump Calculator – measure your vertical two ways.
- Calorie Calculator – daily calorie needs from BMR and activity.
- BMI Calculator – your Body Mass Index in metric or imperial.
- All Fitness Calculators
Frequently Asked Questions: Vertical Jump
What is a good vertical jump?
For most adults, a vertical of 16 to 20 inches is above average and 24 inches or more is excellent. Trained basketball and volleyball players often clear 28 inches, and elite dunkers can top 40.
Do I measure with shoes on or off?
Either is fine, but be consistent every time so your numbers are comparable. Most official testing is done in athletic shoes, since that is how athletes compete.
How can I increase my vertical jump?
Build lower-body strength with squats, add explosive work like box jumps and depth jumps, and refine your approach and arm swing. Progress comes from consistent training and good recovery, not any single drill.
