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What is the Speed of a Human Jump?

Published in Human Biomechanics 1 min read

The speed of a human jump varies considerably depending on the type of jump (running or standing) and the athlete's capabilities.

The references provided give the initial velocity of a jump, which is a measure of speed. Here's a breakdown:

  • Running Jump (Normal Athletics): 9.15 m/s at an angle of 21 degrees.
  • Standing Jump (Normal Athletics): 2.70 m/s at an angle of 38 degrees.

It's important to understand that these figures represent the initial velocity imparted at takeoff. The actual speed throughout the jump changes due to gravity and air resistance.

Key Factors Affecting Jump Speed:

  • Type of Jump: Running jumps typically achieve much higher speeds due to the momentum gained during the run-up.
  • Athlete Strength and Technique: Stronger athletes and those with refined techniques can generate greater initial velocities.
  • Angle of Takeoff: The angle at which the athlete leaves the ground also affects the jump's speed and distance.
  • External Factors: Wind resistance and surface conditions can also play a role.

Therefore, while we can say the initial speeds are around 9.15 m/s for a running jump and 2.70 m/s for a standing jump in normal athletics, the overall speed throughout the jump is dynamic.