Name ___________________

Date____________________

Directions: Read the paragraph and answer the questions.

Basketball players with gravity-defying vertical jumps are said to have "hops", while spiking specialists on a volleyball team need to have good "ups" in order to elevate above the net. Whatever you choose to call it, athletes from the junior high level to the professional level would love to improve their vertical leaping ability. New developments in the design of specialized training shoes are allowing athletes to do just that - and also reduce their risk of injury.

Plyometric platform shoes have been around since the mid 80's. In 1993, Jumpsoles came to market as the first plyometric platform that could be easily strapped on over regular shoes and easily taken off. The shoes are elevated 2 inches off the ground at the ball of the foot to train the user to walk and run on their toes. Similar to wearing high heel shoes without the heel, the calf muscles have to work overtime to keep the heel off the ground. By doing a series of plyometric exercises in these shoes, fast twitch muscle reflexes are developed which can translate to increased vertical jump - and running speed.

Answer the question using the information form the paragraph. Give evidence if needed.

1. Would you rather have the ability to have better "hops" or "ups"? Explain.

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2. What was so unique about Jumpsoles when they first came to the market?

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3. What specifications did Jumpsoles have to improve your performance?

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4. Where Jumpsoles specifically made to increase your "up" or "hops"? Explain.

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5. Would you purchase Jumpsoles if given the opportunity? Explain.

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