Vertical jump gain by fat kilos lost
The physics model keeps the same impulse and only changes total mass.
Jump physics
Vertical jump, high jump and dunk calculator
This calculator estimates how many centimeters of vertical jump you could gain if you lost excess weight. The calculation is done server-side from a simple mechanical model: with constant take-off energy, a lower mass lets you rise higher.
The result is valid only if the weight loss is fat only and you do not lose muscle, power or coordination. Otherwise, the estimate overstates the real gain.
1. Your inputs
2. Theoretical result
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3. Charts
Dunk according to height
The bars show the vertical jump needed to touch the rim, then to dunk.
4. Why this formula works
If take-off energy stays the same:h₂ = h₁ × (m₁ / m₂)
Kinetic energy:Eₖ = 1/2 × m × v²
This follows directly from the equality between the jump's mechanical energy and the work produced at take-off. If you keep your strength, coordination and muscle mass, losing fat simply makes the system easier to propel.
Michael Jordan is often cited with a vertical jump around 110 to 120 cm in popular sources. Treat it as a mythic reference rather than a laboratory measure. The useful idea here is not to imitate Jordan, but to understand that explosiveness depends on the power-to-mass ratio.
For dunking by height, the practical reference depends mainly on your standing reach. On average, arm reach can be estimated at around 1.33 × height. From there, you usually need about 50 to 55 cm of vertical for a tall athlete close to 2.00 m, 65 to 70 cm around 1.90 m, and 80 to 95 cm when you are roughly between 1.70 m and 1.80 m. Technique, arm length and ball control can change these numbers.
5. FAQ
Do you really jump higher when you lose weight?
Yes, if the loss is mostly fat and strength stays stable. The jump becomes mechanically more favorable.
How many kilos do you need to lose to gain 5 cm of vertical?
There is no universal answer. The gain depends on your starting weight and your current jump. The calculator gives the best estimate for your profile.
What vertical jump do you need to dunk at 1.80 m?
Usually around 75 to 85 cm, but it varies depending on your standing reach, wingspan, hand size and take-off technique.
What is Michael Jordan's vertical jump?
The most commonly repeated figure is around 110 to 120 cm. It is a popular estimate, not an official lab measurement.
Can you use this calculation if you also lose muscle?
You can use it as a rough estimate, but the result becomes less reliable. If you lose muscle, your strength and power also drop.
What is the difference between vertical jump and high jump?
Vertical jump measures mainly the rise of the center of mass. High jump also depends heavily on technique, take-off angle and bar clearance.