High-flying leaps have led to some of the most iconic moments in sports: Nate Robinson clearing teammates to win dunk contests, Cristiano Ronaldo flying head and shoulders above opponents for a header, or Pete Sampras elevating to put away a smash at the net.

However, jumping (and figuring out how to jump higher) isn't a skill reserved only for pro athletes. Jumping, just like running, squatting, skipping, and throwing, is a fundamental human movement, explains Jack Coxall, CSCS.

"Being able to jump — and jump correctly — is not only a great skill to have in the bag, but it has so many carryovers to other things," Coxall says. "This includes power development and strength development, both of which decrease with age; absorption of force, which is related to injury prevention; coordination; and increased bone density."

In other words, time spent learning how to jump higher is time well spent.

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