Influence of segmental length on bilateral horizontal and vertical jumping performance of untrained collegiate students

This study investigated the influence of segmental lengths—foot, lower leg, upper leg, leg, arm span, and torso height—on bilateral horizontal and vertical jumping performance. Data from 136 PathFit 1 students at Bulacan State University (AY 2024-2025) were analyzed using a quantitative predictive design. Fitness tests, including BMI, Standing Long Jump, Vertical Jump, and segmental measurements, were conducted with validated instruments, and multiple linear regression (SPSS v30) assessed predictors of jumping performance. For the Standing Long Jump, significant R² values included right foot length (0.137), left foot length (0.124), right arm span (0.336), left arm span (0.317), and torso span (0.270). For the Vertical Jump, significant R² values included right foot length (0.141), left foot length (0.127), and right lower leg length (0.110). Results identified foot lengths, lower leg lengths, ankle-to-hip lengths, and arm spans as significant predictors for both jump types, while upper leg lengths were insignificant, and torso height was significant only for horizontal jumps. Limitations included the exclusion of foot girth, lower leg and upper leg dimensions, and upper body girth. Future research should include girth, volume, and segmental variations to better understand their role in jumping performance.