Correlation Between Upper Extremity Muscle Strength and Vertical Jump Performance in Volleyball Players

Background - To date, we know that lower limb is the primary force producer for vertical jump, but it is still unclear that which muscle plays the most significant role in producing effective jumping. In previous studies the roles of rectus femoris and vastus medialis has been reported in extending the knees during vertical jump height predictor. However, the act of vertical jump requires the whole-body participation. Hence the information regarding the contributions of arm and trunk muscles are lacking, even though these muscles seem to play an important part in the vertical jump. Their relation to vertical jump performance however, remains to be explored. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine a correlation between upper limb muscle strength and the vertical jump performance. Methodology - A sample of 50 volleyball players (mean age = 22.88 ±2.909 years, mean height =170.308 ±6.52 cm, mean weight =65.542 ±4.809 kg, mean BMI = 21.834 ±1.349 kg/m²) participated. The participants were accessed for upper limb muscle strength by using hand held dynamometer and their vertical jump height by Sargent jump test were measured. Result - A correlation analysis showed significant correlation between upper limb muscle strength and vertical jump height. Conclusion - The main finding of the study suggests that upper limb involvement and its role during vertical jump. By developing a strength protocol for upper limb muscle vertical jump performance can be enhanced.