Fitness Testing
Fitness Testing > Tests > Speed & Power > Vertical Jump > Bosco > CounterMovement Jump
Bosco CounterMovement Jump
This procedure describes the method used for measuring leg power using the Counter Movement Jump, similar to the Bosco Squat Jump, though here the athlete begins in an upright standing position and squats down to the 90 degree leg bend position before immediately jumping vertically. This is part of the Bosco Ergo Jump System. See more about other vertical jump techniques.
- equipment required: Bosco Ergojump System (or similar device - e.g. just jump mat, Myotest, infrared laser system)
- procedure: Jump height is calculated using a timing mat which measures the time the feet are off the mat. The athlete stands upright in socks or bare feet, as still as possible on the mat with weight evenly distributed over both feet. Hands are placed on the hips, and stay there throughout the test. When all is ready, the athlete squats down until the knees are bent at 90 degrees, then immediately jumps vertically as high as possible, landing back on the mat on both feet at the same time. Allow a good rest between trials. The take-off must be from both feet, with no initial steps or shuffling. They must also not pause at the base of the squat. The best result of at least three attempts is recorded - athletes may continue to jump as long as improvements are being made.
- scoring: The timing mat may give a score of the time in the air, and the calculated vertical jump height can be calculated. Height can be calculated using this formula: jump height = 4.9 x (0.5 x Time)^2 ). The jump height is usually greater than achieved with the Squat Jump.
- disadvantages: The jump height is affected by how much you bend your knees, so the test can be invalidated if the subject does not bend the knees the required 90 degrees each time.
- comments: The subject may benefit from practice, and should be verbally encouraged to perform maximally each time.
Related Pages
- video of a Bosco Test being conducted
- about Carmelo Bosco
- a discussion about the various vertical jump equipment available
- a discussion about other vertical jump techniques
- see the list of anaerobic tests for other fitness tests of leg power.
