Jump Training Helped One 62-Year-Old Rebuild Fitness

At 62, one woman discovered she could no longer jump with both feet onto a raised step, despite still being able to hop, skip and perform other movements. She began practicing jump-based exercises several times a week and regained that ability after a few weeks, even with two risers beneath each side of her step bench.

The change reflects why experts view explosive movement as useful with age. Power—the ability to create force quickly—can fade faster than muscle size or basic strength. Jump practice may also support bone strength, balance and faster reactions by challenging the muscles, nervous system and skeleton together. Those abilities can matter when climbing stairs, avoiding puddles or recovering from a stumble.

Her workouts progressed from small hops to higher squat jumps. She reported feeling steadier while walking and exercising, returning to a taller step height, standing more upright and climbing stairs with more energy. The article’s experts say this type of training is best suited to people who already strength train and can handle combined movements such as squats with overhead presses. The program also emphasizes soft landings, stable athletic shoes and gradual progression.