Dunk Calculator
Find out the vertical jump you need to slam dunk a basketball.
Can You Dunk?
Vertical Jump Needed to Dunk
0"
This is an estimate. A standard basketball rim is 10 feet (120 inches) high. An extra 6 inches is added to clear the rim.
About the Dunk Calculator
This calculator helps aspiring basketball players determine the exact vertical jump they need to dunk on a standard 10-foot rim. By inputting your height and standing reach, the tool calculates the precise vertical leap required. You can also input your current vertical jump to see how close you are to your goal and visualize your jump against the rim.
Formula Explained
The calculation is based on the difference between your maximum possible reach and the height of the rim, plus a buffer to clear it cleanly.
- Determine Target Height: A standard basketball rim is 10 feet (120 inches) high. To dunk, you need to get your hand about 6 inches above the rim. So, the target height is 126 inches.
- Calculate Jump Needed: The formula is simply the target height minus your standing reach.
How to Improve Your Vertical Jump
Increasing your vertical leap requires dedication to explosive strength and power training. Here are the key areas to focus on:
Plyometrics
Exercises like box jumps, depth jumps, and broad jumps train your muscles to produce maximum force in the shortest amount of time.
Strength Training
Build a strong foundation with compound lifts like squats and deadlifts. Stronger legs can generate more power.
Technique and Form
Proper jumping technique, including arm swing and converting horizontal speed into vertical lift, can add inches to your jump instantly.
Core Strength & Flexibility
A strong core stabilizes your body and transfers energy efficiently. Flexibility in your hips and ankles prevents injury and allows for a greater range of motion.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high do you need to jump to dunk? →
To dunk, you need to be able to jump high enough for your hand to go over the 10-foot (305 cm) rim while holding a basketball. This means your maximum vertical reach (standing reach + vertical jump) needs to be about 10 feet 6 inches. The exact vertical jump required depends entirely on your height and standing reach. Taller individuals with longer arms need a smaller vertical jump.
What is the average vertical jump? →
The average vertical jump for a typical adult male is between 16 to 20 inches (40-50 cm). For adult females, it's around 12 to 16 inches (30-40 cm). Elite athletes, especially in sports like basketball and volleyball, can often have vertical jumps exceeding 30 or even 40 inches.
How is standing reach measured? →
To measure your standing reach, stand flat-footed next to a wall and reach up as high as you can with one hand, keeping your arm straight. Have a friend mark the highest point your fingertips touch. The distance from the floor to that mark is your standing reach. On average, a person's standing reach is about 1.3 times their height.
Can a 5'7" person dunk? →
Yes, it is possible for a 5'7" person to dunk, but it requires an exceptional vertical jump. Spud Webb, who is 5'7\", famously won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest in 1986. A person of this height would likely need a vertical jump of around 40-45 inches to dunk a basketball.
What exercises improve vertical jump? →
The best exercises for improving vertical jump are plyometrics and strength training. Key plyometric exercises include box jumps, depth jumps, and squat jumps. For strength, focus on compound movements like squats, deadlifts, and calf raises to build explosive power in your legs and core.