Thursday, February 28, 2013

A Comparison of the Top Three Vertical Jump Programs

There are so many people out there who think dunking is just for the pros. With the development of vertical jump training programs, however, increasing your vertical is no longer a distant dream.
I investigated the three top vertical jump programs side by side, and although each program had its good and bad points, there was one program that was a clear winner in terms of its results, personal coaching, value for the price, and verifiable testimonials. It's called The Jump Manual, written by athletic coach Jacob Hiller. I learned that if a 5'5 guy can dunk, you can too.

Only One Program Provided Me With Verifiable Testimonials

After making it my mission to investigate the top selling vertical jump programs and which ones actually worked, I chose the top three, in the following order: The Jump Manual, The Vertical Project, and The Vertical Jump Development Bible. After contacting all three authors, only one of them put me in touch with real people who got the results they wanted. The Vertical Project never answered my request at all, and the other author, Kelly Baggett, simply referred me to the testimonial page--which everyone wonders if testimonials are fake or not. But the testimonials are 100% verifiable with the Jump Manual, and Jacob Hiller was more than happy to put me in touch with his players, including a 5'5 now-dunker.

#1) The Jump Manual

The Jump Manual is the only program that guarantees 10 inches minimum gain or your money back.
The creator of the program, Jacob Hiller, has been developing his vertical jump program fundamentals for 8 years. As the newest program available, The Jump Manual implements all of the latest developments in vertical jump training. Jacob Hiller has helped hundreds of athletes to better their vertical with the use of nine important yet frequently ignored facets of training.

The other important things about this program include:

A Multi-Faceted Approach. The Jump Manual embraces the idea that the way to get the fastest gains is to do exercises that encompass a wide range of work-outs--unlike a lot of programs that only focus on a single type of exercise.

Videos. Unlike a lot of other programs, this one is very visually appealing. There are videos for all of the exercises, so there's no question how to do the work-outs. And you can see for yourself that Jacob is a trained athlete himself, and knows what he's talking about. I cannot emphasize how much it helped to understand a concept by watching a video of the exercise instead of just reading about it. Which would you prefer, to read about an exercise or to see it being done the way it's supposed to be done? Also, I was told Jacob sends regular updates to his customers, with free bonuses like an interview with one of the top basketball shooting coaches in the world.

Simplicity. The program is very simple and easy-to-use. Jacob Hiller explains the concepts in The Jump Manual in a very clear, easy-to-understand way, even difficult ideas like plyometrics.

One-on-One Coaching. This program has a very personal touch to it. With some other programs you'll be blown away by the hype, and you'll get ignored once you give out your credit card number. Jacob does unlimited email coaching for the first month of the program for free, and then if you choose you can continue on a cost-per-monthly basis.
This in and of itself is worth the price because mentoring is one of the keys to every athlete's success.

Scientific Principles. Jacob Hiller is an experienced and certified athletic trainer. He uses real fitness principles to get results, so there's no need for hype or ambiguity. He spells everything out succinctly. If you obey these proven principles, he claims, the results have to come.

Results. This is the greatest part...the website claims that no one who has completed the program has asked for their money back. That means 100% customer satisfaction... I'm convinced this is the best product out there. I recommend this program for anyone who is serious about getting results, who would enjoy personal coaching from an expert, and who is looking for a program that provides a safe, healthy way to achieve those goals.

A link to this program's website can be found in the author bio box if you are interested in learning more.

#2) The Vertical Project

The Vertical Project gets second place in my review. The hype when you visit the website ("it's worthy of a Nobel Prize!") might make you laugh. His promise is to gain 8 inches or your money back plus $100. Luke Lowery's claim that his program is the equivalent of a Ferrari explains why his program is one of the most expensive out there. Also, when I emailed and asked for testimonials, I got a mass email response saying Luke Lowery was WAY too busy to get back to me, which made me feel that as a potential customer, I was getting ignored.

If you are into getting the most information you can on a subject, this program is the largest. However, the program is so complicated, detailed, and long many athletes will feel hard-pressed to complete it.

The best part about this program is the many bonuses, which include ideas on spirituality, diet, extra exercises and more. But I'm going to be honest with you. There's so much information and so many intense requirements that an average athlete could get a little lost in trying to complete them. I'm guessing nobody actually implements everything in this book. Most athletes just want to jump higher by buying this program, not have to go digging for the information they need. The program is difficult to follow to exactness, so getting your money back-or figuring out how to gain the maximum number of inches-may be harder than you think. Also, Luke Lowery makes a huge deal about the fact that he went from a 33 to a 41 inch vertical, but most of us want to see greater gains than that. I would recommend this program only for those who want to delve into every detail behind training your vertical, and who are less interested in getting results. See for yourself by using the link in the author bio box for The Vertical Project.

#3) The Vertical Jump Development Bible

This program comes in third place. Kelly Baggett at least answered my email even if he turned down my request to put me in touch with real athletes. This program has the same down-to-earth feel as The Jump Manual, and it's pretty clear Baggett knows his stuff: the program seems to be based on scientific principles. His explanations of these principles, however, are at times difficult to understand.

This program is reasonably priced but you wouldn't want to pay more: this is just a PDF document with some photos. The program is a bearable 150 pages, with more than half of the document being exercise descriptions. According to his website, he gained almost 20 inches applying these principles. I think this program can work, but wading through the long text is difficult. Visually and organizationally, this program is less likely to get you excited about getting the vertical you want. The whole program just feels a little outdated.

Overall, though, this program will probably still get you results while being the lowest priced. The problem is, his only guarantee is results-not a specific number of inches. The program also includes several bonuses. I recommend this program for someone who can't afford to pay more than $40 for a training program. Check out the author bio box for a link to The Vertical Jump Development Bible homepage.

To sum up...

Whichever program you choose depends on your budget, your desire for success, and how much gain you want to see. The Jump Manual is reasonably priced, guarantees the most amount of inch gain, includes unlimited coaching for a month, and provides verifiable successful testimonials, causing me to conclude that currently there is no better program out there for the athlete who wants to increase his or her vertical.

Check out a link to The Jump Manual website in the author bio box to learn more about this program that's been tested by university professors for its accuracy in obeying scientific principles to achieve success.
Joey Listler has researched extensively how to jump higher as a basketball and volleyball player. Visit to learn more about the most successful jump training system. Visit the other programs here:The Vertical Jump Development Bible and here: The Vertical Project.

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

How to Obtain a 40-plus Inch Vertical Jump

Have you ever seen an athlete in basketball, football, or any sport for that matter, make an amazing, gravity-defying, play and thought to yourself I wish I could do that? If you have had that thought, you may very well be selling yourself short. One of the most common misconceptions about an athlete with a high vertical leap is that they were born with their athleticism, and it is all purely based on genetics. While some are born with the natural ability to jump higher than others, I assure you that many people you see that blow your mind away with their leaps are not and had to work for every inch of it. With a proper training program, diet, and work ethic, anyone can obtain jaw-dropping hops.



First of all you must have a proper vertical jump training program if you ever hope to see a sizable increase in your vertical leap. This MUST include workouts that increase your strength as well as workouts that increase speed and explosiveness. The basics of how high any person can jump are how much force they can exert upon the ground, and how quickly they can exert that force. To improve upon these two factors, one must combine the most effective aspects of weight training, resistance training, and plyometrics into a well structured routine. Although you can very easily put together a decent workout routine for yourself that will more than likely produce results, I would highly recommend that you pick up a professionally designed program from one of the vertical jump fields' experts. These people have spent their entire lives researching how to add inches to the average persons' vertical leap, and you will no doubt experience far greater gains by following their programs. Look into and read reviews of the top vertical jump programs before you make any decision and/or purchase.



Another major factor in determining how many inches you can add to your vertical jump is how healthy you are, and more specifically how healthy you eat. Unless you were lucky enough to be one of the small few who were born with the genetics for a giant vertical, you might as well start eating right now if you ever want to reach your goals. If you are packing a few extra pounds of fat that you don't need lose them; this is only more weight you need to take up in the air with you. And it is well known that in order to maximize the potential of muscle training, you need to eat a healthy and protein rich diet. You may also consider using supplements, but that is up to individual discretion. If you do decide to supplement, make sure to do your research and get the right stuff.



One final and often overlooked variable in the equation of gaining vertical leap is work ethic. You have made it this far so you are clearly interested in the topic, and are very likely motivated, but can you keep it up? After six weeks of intense training will you still keep to your workouts and diet with equal enthusiasm? In order to maximize gains, your vertical jump program should be followed religiously, and all workouts and exercises performed correctly and with full effort. This will determine whether or not you achieve the amazing results you are looking for, or become one of the many who burn out and never reach their goal.



Obtaining a giant vertical leap of forty or more inches is not easy. Nothing worth having ever is. However I promise that if you follow a professionally constructed vertical jump program, eat correctly, and work hard consistently you will gain multiple inches on your vertical leap and eventually reach your goal, however many inches that may be.



Click here to read reviews of the most state of the art vertical jump programs on the market today.



Vertical Jump Explosion



Rock Climbing


In the shortest answer, it means "going vertical." But that can include sport climbing in a gym, bouldering without ropes (either at the gym or outside) close to the ground with spotters or crash pads in case you fall, cragging at local outcrops that require use of climbing ropes but no hikes to get to the rock, and alpine climbing, where you travel on foot quite a distance to get to your destination.

Rock climbing is an exhilarating sport, full of danger, thrills, and the overwhelming feeling of victory having climbed up a cliff face. Rock climbing is also physically and mentally demanding, combining the need for great physical endurance, nerves of steel, a high strength to weight ratio, and the ability to "read" the wall and choose the best route to climb.

The sport needs one to be physically and mentally strong because this activity is truly the testing of ones stamina and grit.

Kerala Rock Climbing Destinations

In Kerala there is the option of different rock climbing as either free climbing or aid climbing. In free climbing you will be provided with ropes and gears for safety In the case of a fall. But in aid climbing a passage up a piece of rock is engineered by using equipment placed in the rock for upward progress. The training for adventurous rock climbing sport is available at different locations of Kerala.

The picturesque dam site of Kakkayam, teeming with exotic wild life, offers excellent rock climbing opportunities. The best time to visit is between November and April. Munnar and other places offers rock climbing in Kerala. Rock climbing in India is popular all over Kerala.

For those with an overdose of adrenalin and those willing to test their adventurous spirit would find the adventure zone of Thenmala with a quite thrilling experience. Those who need to give their body muscles a real work can go for a rock climbing at Thenmla. Kerala adventure rappelling is popular.

Thrills behind Rock Climbing

In this sport, like other sports, the body is controlled through mental power and means going beyond oneself. Those who want to be agile and mentally strong, rock climbing is, perhaps the best one to start. It's an incomparable sensation to be high on a wall, moving with precision on the edge of space.

Your concentration is focused on a crucial move and in that one perfect moment you deftly swing up and lock onto the handhold. Nowadays the rock climbing is a safe, exciting and challenging activity within the capabilities of most active people. The desire to climb is natural for most adventurous people and moving up a near vertical rock face with body and mind working in harmony is a great thrill.

The rock climbing is also a group sport. The lot more fun lies behind the group work. It is not only a fun but also good for you because it works the back muscles, forearms, and biceps. Obviously it is an exciting workout.

Rock Climbing in Kerala has become a major sport which needs physical strength and endurance; it poses a different kind of challenge, excitement, and adrenaline rush. This is probably one of the many reasons why a lot of people are so excited about this activity.


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Find Out How To Dunk A Basketball


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 a defender. 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 Get Started

Before an average player can even think about dunking, he needs to take an inventory and be realistic. A player's height and his athletic abilities are the two main factors that determine from the beginning if he will ever be able to dunk. Not to say it isn't possible, but there are very few 5-6 players that will ever be able to dunk. In fact, an average sized person will have to have above-average jumping ability in order to be able to dunk. Be realistic with yourself. At the same time, don't limit yourself before you even try. Many people have made spectacular increases in their jumping ability. It takes hard work, but you can reap the rewards.

Things you should evaluate before you start:

1.) Is height a problem? This won't change. You CAN learn to jump higher, but you still might never be able to dunk a ball. But, that is okay! Develop other aspects of your game.

2.) Are you overweight? By being overweight, you are limiting your jumping ability.

3.) How athletic are you in general? Some players just have the "gift" of being able to jump. It can be developed as well, but know where you are starting. Get a messurement of your vertical leap before you start so you know how you are progressing.

4.) Are you in good physical shape? Jumping involves muscles from the entire body. Just having strong legs alone is not the answer.

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. In order to reach your ultimate jumping potential, you need to start in good shape overall. You use every part of your body while performing a jump, so it stands to reason that your entire body needs to be in shape. While this part of the process isn't glamorous, it needs to be done. A strong foundation is necessary to achieve the best results. Begin with this and you will be rewarded for your efforts.

For the rest of our instructions on How To Dunk a Basketball, see our website on How To Jump Higher.


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Sunday, February 24, 2013

Are All Fitness Centers Created Equal?


How to choose one that’s right for you

Although I’ve worked in fitness centers for over 30 years, in reality, you don’t have to spend a lot of money on expensive health club or fitness center memberships, or the latest fitness center memberships, or the latest fitness equipment, to increase your level of physical fitness.

On the other hand, many people find it difficult to concentrate; say at home, when there are many other distractions. Also, people sometimes find that making a financial commitment increases their chances of following thru long-term.

Fitness centers are designed, built, and equipped to appeal to a broad range of individuals. After all, member ship sales pay the bills.

However, not all centers operate in the same manner. Many require contracts that are legally binding, and require monthly payments, for the length of the contract. There’s nothing inherently wrong with that scenario, in fact it’s very common. The point is, if you’re going to sign on the dotted line, it’s important, that the health club you’ve chosen is right for you.

Location

People make all kinds of excuses not to work out, with proximity to home or work very high on the list. Research has shown that most people won’t travel more than eight miles or eight minutes to work out. Since an exercise an exercise program requires consistency, a convenient location is a must.

Hours of Operation

If you prefer to exercise at a particular time of day, remember to look closely at the day and hours of operation. Also, visit the club prior to joining at the time of day you’re most likely to attend. Is it crowded then?

Equipment and Amenities

With your personal fitness goals in mind, shop around and compare equipment, locker rooms, classes, etc. How about a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam or sauna? Are these in good working order? Have you any interests there?

There should be a wide array of both cardiovascular and strength equipment, as you’ll want to have the opportunity to change your routine periodically, and use different pieces of equipment. That will help keep you interested and motivated.

Cost

Shopping around allows you to compare what you’re getting, to what you’re paying. Newer clubs with newer equipment, a wide variety of amenities, will probably cost more per month, but you never know, so look around. I like clubs that charge an all-inclusive monthly fee, that allows you use of the entire facility. Usually the only additional charge would be for the personal training or massages, which is true everywhere.

Personnel

How were you treated as you looked around? Did the employees seem attentive to members, helpful and friendly? If you want to learn a new machine or piece of equipment, is someone available to demonstrate? You shouldn’t feel uncomfortable asking for assistance in your own club.

While we’re on the topic of fitness center’s employees, pay special attention to the exercise specialists education, experience, and professional certification. Knowing why to do a particular exercise is just as important as how to perform it. Also, are they C.P.R. certified, and is an Automatic Defibrillator available, in case of emergency?

Membership

Certain fitness centers attract a specific kind of member. Bodybuilders are attracted by lots of free weights, as their main purpose in building large muscles. On the other hand, senior citizens are much more comfortable with selectorized machines, and a good choice of cardiovascular equipment. These clubs will have a totally different feel, as the business adapts to the majority of its members, and the fitness center takes on a personality of its own. Make sure which center you’re most comfortable in, before joining.

Cleanliness

There is a wide variation among fitness centers, as far as cleanliness is concerned. My experience has shown that hospital-based fitness facilities are generally the cleanest, which makes sense. Again, you want to be somewhere, that you’re comfortable and safe, and where the owners take pride in their fitness center.

Again, all health/fitness centers are not created equal. Find the one that fits your wants and needs, attend consistently and look and feel better, as you build on your personal fitness program.


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