Glutes - Stronger glutes = hip power, hip power = higher vertical
1. Hip Thrusts (barbell or banded) Maximizes horizontal hip extension which directly carries over to the final phase of takeoff. Stronger hip lockout = higher impulse 2. Back Squats (deep or parallel) Loads the glutes heavily in deep hip flexion, increasing force production through the entire concentric phase. Also can improve rate of force development (RFD) when trained explosively (pin squats, 25-35%1RM seated squats etc..) 3. Bulgarian Split Squats Improves single leg glute force and stability and increases net force output 4. Romanian Deadlifts (RDLs) Strengthens the hip hinge pattern and glute contribution during eccentric loading. Better eccentric strength = more elastic energy stored before takeoff!