Estimation of Lower Body Muscle Power from Vertical Jump in Youth

Abstract

Incorporation of the vertical jump (VJ) test in health-related fitness batteries is predicated on the availability of prediction equations to accurately estimate VJ power. The purpose was to develop and validate a generalizable equation to estimate VJ power from VJ height, body mass, age, and sex in 10- to 18-year-olds. The sample (N = 529) performed a VJ test and had VJ power assessed via mechanography. Validation and cross-validation groups were randomly formed to assess accuracy. Results indicated that estimates of VJ power from VJ height and body mass were accurate (R =.93, SEE = 275 Watts). Age and sex did not add substantially to the model. Upon cross-validation, accuracy was maintained. The newly developed model was more accurate than previously published equations. The following equation provides accurate and feasible estimates of VJ power (Watts) = −1354.820 + (35.455*VJ[cm]) + (43.942*body mass[kg]). This equation provides a feasible way to estimate power in field-based settings.