Some of the most entertaining players in the NBA share one common feature, top tier athleticism. From LeBron and his signature fast break slam to Blake Griffin and his knack for putting defenders on a poster, many players gain recognition and eventual popularity because of their jaw dropping explosiveness.
Unfortunately, few people in this world are gifted with that type of natural ability. Most will never be able to dunk at all, much less partake in the in-air acrobatics exhibited by the aforementioned players. Though maybe not to this extent, there are means for players to increase their vertical leaping ability – particularly lifting weights and participating in box drills. Even with those activities in place, the difficult task lies in the assessment of development. The most obvious testing method would be the vertical leaping ability. The problem is that one jump does not necessarily test the strength and endurance of a person’s ability.
A new innovation called the VERT Sensor provides an alternative, more reliable method of assessment. With this, all the user has to do is attach the sensor to a pair of gym shorts and then start playing. The device tracks not only the elevation of the individual’s leaps but also the quantity of jumps throughout the course of the exercise – the latter being something the typical spectator does not take note of. The sensor quantifies each series of jumps for future reference by the user.
One potential use for the VERT sensor is for long term rehabilitation, particularly in cases similar to Derrick Rose’s. When an athlete recovers from a major injury and returns to action, one of the most difficult parts for trainers to determine is how close the body part is to its original functioning. Though very important, statistics don’t necessarily paint the entire picture. Stats can return to normal with a player still feeling lingering effects from the injury, even years down the road.
With the VERT sensor, players’ recovery can be examined with more depth and precision. As individual games and the season as a whole progresses, the app permits trainers to determine if the player feels more comfortable jumping on the previously injured limb by looking at the frequency and altitude at which he jumps.
The NBA as a whole could serve as a beneficiary from this product. In addition to recovery, the VERT sensor could take the Sports Science approach and utilize the sensors to quantify and disclose jumping measurements for certain players to viewers, particularly during television broadcasts. High leapers could have very creative and unique numbers to accompany replays and that will in turn lead to more informed consumers of the sport and interesting stats to follow. Imaging knowing who jumped the highest each night, week, or season?
Other cool means – outside of rigorous training and broadcast uses – exist for the use of the VERT sensor, including drills to improve one’s skillset in activities and sports such as jump-rope or volleyball. The implementation of this device could potentially change the game by complementing and providing a more in depth examination of ‘leg day’ in the gym.