Best Vertical Jump Program 2026: Expert Picks

Choosing the right vertical jump program can mean the difference between adding 5 inches or 15 inches to your leap. With dozens of programs on the market, each promising insane results, it is hard to know which ones actually deliver.

We have spent hundreds of hours testing, researching, and comparing the most popular vertical jump programs available in 2026. This guide breaks down our top picks based on real results, training methodology, and overall value.

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How We Evaluated These Programs

Before diving into our rankings, here is what we looked for in each program:

• Scientific backing. Is the training methodology supported by sports science research?
• Real user results. What are verified users actually achieving?
• Program structure. Is the training plan clear, progressive, and well-organized?
• Injury prevention. Does the program include proper warm-ups, recovery protocols, and progression?
• Value for money. Does the price justify what you get?
• Support and community. Can you get help when you need it?

We also considered feedback from coaches, physical therapists, and athletes who have used these systems extensively.

Our Top 3 Vertical Jump Programs for 2026

#1. Vert Shock: Best Overall Program

Our Rating: 9.4/10

Vert Shock remains our top pick for 2026 and for good reason. Created by professional dunker Adam Folker and professional basketball player Justin “Jus Fly” Darlington, this program focuses on shock training and plyometric methods that target your fast-twitch muscle fibers.

What makes it stand out:

• 8-week program with three distinct phases (Pre-Shock, Shock, Post-Shock)
• Focuses on bodyweight exercises, so no gym membership required
• Progressive overload built into the program structure
• Targets the nervous system for rapid gains
• Includes maintenance phase to keep your gains long-term

What the program claims: The program targets gains of 9 to 15 inches over the full 8-week cycle. Even athletes who already have a decent vertical tend to see meaningful improvements.

Who it is best for: Basketball players, volleyball players, and anyone who wants fast results without needing access to heavy weights. It is particularly effective for beginners and intermediate athletes.

The downside: Advanced athletes with extensive strength training backgrounds may find the lack of weight training limiting for long-term progression.

Check out Vert Shock here | Read our full Vert Shock review

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#2. The Jump Manual: Best for Strength-Based Training

Our Rating: 9.0/10

The Jump Manual by Jacob Hiller takes a more complete, strength-focused approach to vertical jump training. If you have access to a gym and want to build a foundation of raw power, this is the program for you.

What makes it stand out:

• 12-week program with complete strength-and-power training (strength, plyometrics, flexibility, nutrition)
• Includes weight training protocols for building explosive power
• One-on-one coaching access with Jacob Hiller
• Detailed nutrition and supplementation guide
• Addresses all nine variables that contribute to vertical leap

What the program claims: The program targets gains of 10 to 15 inches, with some dedicated athletes reporting even higher. Gains tend to be very sustainable because of the strength foundation.

Who it is best for: Athletes who have gym access, are willing to commit to a longer program, and want to maximize their long-term jumping potential. Great for football players and track athletes who already do weight training.

The downside: Requires gym access and more time commitment per session. The 12-week timeline is longer than some competitors.

Check out The Jump Manual here | Read our full Jump Manual review

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#3. The Jump Guide: Best Budget Option

Our Rating: 8.2/10

For athletes on a tighter budget, The Jump Guide offers solid training principles at a lower price point. While it does not have the polish of our top two picks, it delivers a legitimate training framework that produces results.

What makes it stand out:

• Affordable entry point for jump training
• Combines bodyweight and light resistance training
• Clear exercise demonstrations
• Flexible scheduling options

What the program claims: The program targets 6 to 10 inches of improvement over the program duration.

Who it is best for: Younger athletes, budget-conscious trainers, or anyone who wants a solid introduction to structured jump training.

Check out The Jump Guide here

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Quick Comparison Table

Feature	Vert Shock	Jump Manual	Jump Guide
Duration	8 weeks	12 weeks	10 weeks
Equipment needed	None	Gym required	Minimal
Expected gains	9-15 inches	10-15 inches	6-10 inches
Coaching support	Community	One-on-one	Email
Training style	Plyometric	Strength + Plyo	Hybrid
Best for	Speed of results	Long-term gains	Budget option

Which Program Should You Choose?

The best program depends on your situation. Here is a quick decision framework:

• Choose Vert Shock if you want the fastest results, prefer bodyweight training, or do not have gym access. It is also our top recommendation for basketball and volleyball players. Get Vert Shock here.

• Choose Jump Manual if you already lift weights, have gym access, and want a complete strength-and-power approach. The one-on-one coaching is a huge bonus. Get Jump Manual here.

• Choose Jump Guide if you are on a budget or just starting out and want a simple, effective framework. Get Jump Guide here.

Can You Combine Programs?

We get this question a lot. While we would not recommend running two programs simultaneously, many athletes have had success completing Vert Shock first for quick gains, then transitioning to the Jump Manual to build a stronger foundation for even higher jumps. This combination approach can yield exceptional results over a 20-week period.

Final Thoughts

All three programs on this list are legitimate training systems that can help you jump higher. The key is picking the one that aligns with your goals, available equipment, and timeline, then committing fully to the process.

If you are new to jump training, start with our foundational guide on how to increase your vertical jump to understand the core principles. For a side-by-side comparison of our top two programs, check out our Vert Shock vs Jump Manual comparison.

If we had to pick just one for most people, Vert Shock earns our top recommendation for its combination of rapid results, accessibility, and proven track record. But you honestly cannot go wrong with any program on this list.

Whatever you choose, remember that consistency is everything. The best program in the world will not work if you do not show up and put in the effort every single day.

Ready to start adding inches to your vertical? Check out our #1 pick, Vert Shock, and start training today.