Rationale Behind Utilization of the Depth Jump:

The Depth Jump is an excellent exercise to work on developing force absorption capabilities as well as lower body strength.  It requires a great deal of strength and concentration to be able to stop the landing forces as quickly as possible.  This is an important exercise for skating since it is imperative for athletes to learn how to absorb landing forces when jumping.  As ability level increases so too can the difficulty of this exercise; by increasing the height of the box or by changing it to a single-leg landing to mimic the sport even more.  Remember this is a highly demanding exercise on the Central Nervous System that requires great consideration in the means at which it is utilize in the training session in regards to volume, intensity, rest intervals and appropriateness.