Drills for Skills: The Jump Shot

The jump shot. Easy to do. Hard to master.

We break down some key drills to improve power and accuracy and help make sense of where that training comes clutch!

Form

First things first. Make sure elbows and wrists are solid and shoulders are steady

Keep that same form as you pull back to aim

Follow through. Flick that wrist for greater shot control!

The Shoulder Press

This exercise helps to strengthen the entire shoulder, perfect for shooting those down court jumpers! Have your starting position be lower than 90 degrees. (Your elbows should be at a lower level down than your shoulders) This will give you the maximum range of motion, and the most effective press!

In a slow and controlled motion, push the weight to the sky. Keep your arms in line with your chest!

Follow through, and hold for a second at the top. To add an extra challenge, bring the weights towards each other at the top without touching.

Front Shoulder Raise

The jump shot relies primarily on the frontal area of the shoulder. So let’s target that too. This exercise is perfect for improving aim, stability and explosiveness. That super quick release is coming! Not only that, but you will improve shot follow through and jump shot speed! To start, grab your weight in an overhand grip and lock your elbow. keep your back as straight as possible by pressing your shoulders backwards.

Lift the weight up to the sky in a slow and controlled motion. Keep your arm as straight as possible!

Follow through the motion and hold the weight at a higher level than your shoulder. Hold for a second and slowly drop it back down, carefully!

Shoulders are important. These drills done once a week will build this core muscle strength. Speed, strength, aim, release time and accuracy going all the way up! Your jump shot will thank you.