There’s real value to be found in power-focused training. After all, you don’t have to be lacing up for game time on a field or court to qualify as an athlete. Keeping your athletic abilities sharp as you enter middle age is one of the best ways to age with confidence, preserving muscle mass and strength while simultaneously improving stability, coordination, and the ability to react quickly. All of these skills become increasingly important with age, helping you stay active and maintain your long-term independence.
Jump squats are one power-focused exercise you can easily incorporate into your workout routine to keep your legs explosive and strong enough to handle whatever life throws your way. Ultimately, training the lower body to produce force quickly through exercises like jump squats develops your athletic power and ability to absorb impact for a controlled landing. Don’t feel like you have to jump incredibly high for this to be effective. Focus on moving with intention and landing softly to train these athletic qualities.
Related: The Simple Trick That Makes Squats Harder Without Adding Weight
How to Do Jump Squats
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, toes pointed slightly outward, and arms at your sides.
Push your hips back and bend your knees to lower into a squat, keeping your chest lifted and core engaged.
Drive through your feet to jump explosively into the air, extending your hips, knees, and ankles while swinging your arms for momentum.
Land softly and immediately lower into your next squat.
Related: Want Bigger Quads Without a Barbell? Try This Brutal Single-Leg Move
Why You Should Trust Me
I’m a health and fitness writer for Men’s Journal and an ACE-certified personal trainer with more than five years of experience training clients and coaching various group fitness modalities, from HIIT to indoor cycling.
This story was originally published by Men’s Journal on Oct 29, 2026, where it first appeared in the Fitness section. Add Men’s Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.