Boingvert is one of the most visible names in this space, often marketed as the "secret sauce" for high-flying dunkers. But does it actually deliver, or is it just another overhyped fitness fad? Here is a breakdown of what to expect from the Boingvert system and whether it’s worth your time and money. What is Boingvert? Boingvert is a comprehensive vertical jump training program designed by Shawn Myszka (an NBA movement consultant) and Kelly Baggett. It focuses on a methodology they call "Animalization," which aims to bridge the gap between raw strength and explosive power. Unlike some programs that just throw a bunch of random plyometrics at you, Boingvert is structured into phases: Preparation (Phase 1): Focuses on joint stability and tendon health. Foundation (Phase 2): Builds the "base" of strength required to jump high. Animalization (Phase 3-4): This is where the high-intensity plyometrics and explosive movements come in. The Pros: What We Liked Scientific Backing: The involvement of Shawn Myszka adds significant credibility. Reviewers from The Hoops Geek note that the program's structure aligns with modern athletic training principles. Value for Money: At its price point (often around $7), it provides a massive amount of content, including video tutorials and mobile app access. Focus on Longevity: The inclusion of "prehab" exercises helps prevent common jumping injuries like patellar tendonitis (jumper's knee). The Cons: Where It Falls Short Volume Fatigue: Some athletes find the volume of repetitions to be extremely high. Critics at The Jump Manual Blog argue that this can lead to overtraining if not managed carefully. Time Commitment: This is not a "quick fix." The program requires 12+ weeks of consistent, high-effort work. Gym Access: While there is a "Bodyweight" version, the full "Animal" program requires access to a weight room for the heavy lifting components. Comparison: Boingvert vs. The Competition When choosing a program, it's helpful to see how it stacks up against other popular options: Feature Boingvert Vert Shock Jump Manual Primary Focus Power & Technique Advanced Plyometrics Strength & Force Duration 12+ Weeks 8 Weeks Ongoing Equipment Weights required (Animal) Bodyweight only Weights required Price Point Budget-friendly Mid-range Premium The Verdict: Is It Legit? Boingvert is a legitimate training system, but it isn't magic. It works because it forces you to train the specific biomechanical systems required for jumping. If you are a beginner or intermediate athlete who is willing to put in 3-4 days of hard work per week, you will likely see a 4–8 inch increase in your vertical jump. However, if you are looking for an "instant" dunk or aren't willing to follow the strict phase-based schedule, you might find yourself frustrated. For those on a budget who want a scientifically structured path to the rim, Boingvert is a solid investment. Are you looking to increase your vertical for basketball, volleyball, or just for fun? Let me know your current standing reach and goal in the comments! AI can make mistakes, so double-check responses Copy Creating a public link... You can now share this thread with others Good response Bad response Show all
A Critical Analysis of the BoingVert Vertical Jump Training System Abstract The vertical jump is a critical biomotor ability in sports such as basketball, volleyball, and track and field. Among the myriad of commercial training programs available, BoingVert has emerged as a prominent, digitally distributed system. This paper reviews the methodology, structure, scientific efficacy, and consumer reception of the BoingVert program. It contrasts the program's "Animal" and "Monster" phases with traditional periodization models and evaluates its claims regarding neuromuscular adaptation and tendon stiffness.
1. Introduction The pursuit of increased vertical jump height has driven the development of numerous training methodologies, ranging from plyometrics to heavy resistance training. BoingVert, developed by entrepreneur and performance coach Adam Link, gained significant market traction in the early 2010s through aggressive digital marketing and partnerships with high-profile dunkers. Unlike traditional static manuals, BoingVert is delivered as a digital system, often updated based on user feedback. This review aims to deconstruct the program’s physiological basis and assess its practical application for athletes. 2. Program Structure and Methodology The BoingVert system is primarily divided into two distinct components, often referred to as "phases," designed to be executed sequentially. 2.1 The "Animal" Phase (Foundational Strength) The initial phase of the program focuses on bilateral strength and power development.
Modality: The exercises in this phase rely heavily on bodyweight resistance, single-leg progressions, and high-volume repetitions. Physiological Goal: The stated goal is to strengthen the tendons and ligaments (specifically the patellar and Achilles tendons) to withstand the high-impact forces of the subsequent phase. From a physiological standpoint, this aligns with the concept of preparing the musculoskeletal system for high-intensity plyometrics, though the efficacy of bodyweight-only movements for maximum strength development in advanced athletes is debated in literature. boingvert review
2.2 The "Monster" Phase (Advanced Plyometrics) The second phase shifts entirely to explosive power and reactive ability.
Modality: This phase utilizes high-intensity plyometric drills, depth jumps, and shock training. Physiological Goal: The focus here is the Stretch Shortening Cycle (SSC). The drills are designed to reduce ground contact time (GCT) and improve the efficiency of the neuromuscular system. This phase is notably high-impact and requires the base built in the "Animal" phase to mitigate injury risk.
3. Scientific Evaluation 3.1 Specificity and Transfer of Training BoingVert employs a high degree of specificity. While many vertical jump programs (such as the vertical jump bible or starting strength models) utilize general barbell strength (squats, deadlifts), BoingVert places a heavier emphasis on jump variations and bodyweight loading. Boingvert is one of the most visible names
Pros: This promotes neural adaptation specific to the jumping motion. Athletes often report immediate improvements in jumping coordination. Cons: For novice or weak athletes, the lack of external axial loading (heavy weights) may limit maximum strength gains, which are a prerequisite for high-level power output.
3.2 The "Tendon Stiffness" Claim A central marketing claim of BoingVert is its ability to increase tendon stiffness, thereby turning the legs into "springs." Scientific literature supports the idea that plyometric training increases tendon stiffness and compliance. The program’s emphasis on the "Animal" phase suggests an understanding of the mechanical properties of connective tissue; however, critics argue that true tendon resilience often requires heavy, slow eccentric loading (such as heavy squats or Nordic curls), which is underrepresented in the bodyweight-focused BoingVert model. 3.3 Volume and Frequency The program is known for relatively high training frequencies. In the context of the "Supercompensation" model, this can be effective if the athlete has adequate recovery resources. However, the high volume of depth jumps in the "Monster" phase can lead to overtraining or conditions such as patellar tendinopathy (jumper's knee) if the athlete does not strictly monitor their volume and recovery status. 4. Comparative Analysis | Feature | BoingVert | Traditional Strength & Conditioning | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Primary Modality | Bodyweight & Plyometrics | Barbells, Dumbbells, Plyometrics | | Equipment Needed | Minimal (Boxes, Bands) | High (Rack, Barbell, Weights) | | Focus | Reactive Ability / SSC | Maximum Strength -> Power Conversion | | Injury Risk | Moderate to High (Repetitive impact) | Low to Moderate (Controlled environment) | | Target Audience | Intermediate/Advanced Jumpers | All levels (scalable) | 5. Consumer Reception and Critique Consumer reviews of BoingVert are polarized but generally positive regarding results.
Positive Sentiment: Users frequently praise the "Animal" phase for accessibility, as it can be done at home or a park without a gym membership. The "Monster" phase is widely regarded as intense and effective for athletes who already possess a base level of strength. Negative Sentiment: The most common critique involves the marketing style, which some users find hyperbolic. Additionally, pure strength athletes often find the program lacking in raw loading, leading to stagnation in strength metrics even if vertical jump improves. Some users report knee pain during the transition to the "Monster" phase, indicating a need for better autoregulation. What is Boingvert
6. Conclusion BoingVert represents a modernized approach to vertical jump training that prioritizes specificity and the development of the Stretch Shortening Cycle over general maximal strength. It is a valid and effective system for athletes who possess a baseline level of coordination and strength, and who may lack access to a fully equipped weight room. However, for optimal athletic development, BoingVert is best utilized as a specialized power-conversion block within a larger periodized training plan, rather than a standalone year-round protocol. Its efficacy is highest when the athlete possesses the recovery capacity to handle the high-impact forces of the "Monster" phase.
Disclaimer: This paper is an independent review for informational purposes and does not constitute medical or professional training advice. Athletes should consult with certified strength and conditioning professionals before beginning high-intensity plyometric programs.