How High Can a Human Jump? Record & Average Heights

By Sarah Miller · May 24, 2031

The average human can jump vertically between 16 to 20 inches (40–50 cm), while elite athletes can exceed 40 inches (102 cm). The current world record for the highest vertical jump is 63.5 inches (161.8 cm), achieved by Evan Ungar in 2016.

Understanding Human Vertical Jumping Capacity

Vertical jump height is a key measure of lower-body power and explosive strength. It's used across sports like basketball, volleyball, and track and field to assess athletic performance. While most adults can jump roughly 16–20 inches from a standing position, trained athletes often double that with proper technique and conditioning.

Factors That Influence Jump Height

Several biological and physical factors determine how high a person can jump. Understanding these elements helps athletes improve performance and individuals set realistic goals.

Muscle fiber composition: Fast-twitch muscle fibers generate more explosive force, crucial for jumping.
Leg strength: Quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves play vital roles in propulsion.
Body weight and composition: Lower body fat and optimal muscle-to-weight ratio enhance jump efficiency.
Neuromuscular coordination: The nervous system's ability to activate muscles quickly affects power output.
Technique: Arm swing, depth of knee bend, and takeoff angle significantly impact jump height.

World Records and Elite Performances

The highest recorded vertical jump belongs to Canadian Evan Ungar, who reached 63.5 inches (1.618 m) in May 2016. This surpasses even top NBA athletes, though official records vary based on measurement methods.

NBA Players' Vertical Jumps

In professional basketball, vertical leap is rigorously tested during draft combines. Some of the highest recorded jumps include:

Zach LaVine: 46 inches (117 cm)
Michael Jordan: Estimated 48 inches (122 cm)
Vince Carter: 43 inches (109 cm)
Dwight Howard: 39.5 inches (100 cm)

Training Methods to Increase Jump Height

Improving vertical jump requires targeted training focused on strength, speed, and neuromuscular efficiency.

Plyometric Exercises

These drills enhance explosive power through rapid stretching and contracting of muscles.

Box jumps
Depth jumps
Broad jumps
Jump squats

Strength Training

Building foundational strength increases force production.

Barbell back squats
Deadlifts
Lunges
Calf raises

Speed and Technique Drills

Optimizing movement patterns maximizes energy transfer during takeoff.

Countermovement jumps with arm swing
Approach jumps (for sport-specific training)
Resistance band jumps

Athlete	Sport	Vertical Jump (inches)	Vertical Jump (cm)	Year
Evan Ungar	Fitness	63.5	161.8	2016
Zach LaVine	NBA	46	116.8	2014
Michael Jordan	NBA	48*	121.9*	1984
LeBron James	NBA	40	101.6	2003
Shaquille O'Neal	NBA	32	81.3	1992
Chris Paul	NBA	32.5	82.6	2005
Spud Webb	NBA	42	106.7	1986

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The data shows a wide range of vertical jump capabilities among elite athletes. Evan Ungar's record far exceeds even top NBA players, highlighting the extreme end of human potential. Most professional athletes test between 32–48 inches, with higher values strongly correlated with explosive training regimens.

Biological Limits of Human Jumping

Scientists estimate the theoretical maximum vertical jump for humans at around 70–75 inches (178–190 cm), assuming optimal muscle fiber distribution, leverage, and power-to-weight ratio. However, no human has come close to this limit due to biomechanical constraints and energy dissipation during movement.

Tendon elasticity plays a critical role in storing and releasing kinetic energy.
Ground contact time must be minimized to maximize force application.
Genetics account for up to 80% of baseline explosive power potential.

Common Questions About How High Humans Can Jump

What is the average human vertical jump?

The average adult male can jump between 16 to 20 inches (40–50 cm) from a standing start. Women typically jump slightly lower, averaging 12 to 16 inches (30–40 cm), due to differences in muscle mass and body composition.

Who holds the world record for highest jump?

Evan Ungar of Canada holds the Guinness World Record for the highest vertical jump at 63.5 inches (161.8 cm), set in 2016. This record was measured using a Vertec device, the standard tool for jump testing.

Can you increase your vertical jump?

Yes, most people can increase their vertical jump by 4 to 12 inches through consistent plyometric training, strength development, and improved technique over 8–12 weeks.

Does height affect jumping ability?

Height does not directly determine jump height. Shorter athletes like Spud Webb (5'7") have recorded higher jumps than taller players. However, taller individuals may generate more momentum with longer limbs if they maintain a favorable power-to-weight ratio.

How is vertical jump measured?

Vertical jump is typically measured using a Vertec device or wall-tap method. The athlete stands flat-footed, reaches as high as possible, then jumps and taps the highest vane or mark. The difference between standing reach and jump reach is the vertical leap.