Plyometric Jumps for Improving Balance and Hip and Ankle Mobility

Plyometric jumps are typically used to improve explosive strength.

I find they are excellent for improving balance and the ability to sit in a deep squat, which is helpful for hip and ankle mobility.

Let the focus be landing softly with balance - you should make first contact with the balls of your feet and end with your heels in contact with your landing surface. Aim to maintain your balance in a deep squat for several seconds upon landing.

Even a few inches of jumping can lead to quality training and improvement in balance and mobility.

If you don't feel comfortable using a hard surface like a plyometric box, try stacking firm stretching mats until you've built up enough height to challenge yourself.

For an overview of exercise progressions that you can work at to improve your mobility and balance in a systematic way, please feel free to visit our Mobility Exercise Progressions page here:

Mobility Exercise Progressions

For some suggestions on how to set up a simple workout area at home, please feel free to view:

Suggested Resources for a Home Gym