Dunk Calculator
How high you can reach while standing (cm)
Standard basketball rim is 305cm
Enter the extra space between fingertips and rim you need to complete a dunk. 15cm is a sensible option for most jumpers.
Calculate how high you need to jump to dunk a basketball based on your height and reach.
What is Dunking?
Basketball Dunking Explained
Dunking is a basketball shot where a player jumps high enough to reach above the rim and forcefully throws the ball down through the hoop. The standard basketball rim height is 10 feet (3.05 meters) above the ground.
Key Requirements
To dunk successfully, your hand must reach at least 10 feet high, plus additional height to clear the rim and ball.
How to Use the Dunk Calculator
- Enter your height in feet and inches or centimeters
- Enter your standing reach (how high you can reach while standing)
- Click "Calculate" to see your required vertical jump
- Review your dunking potential and training recommendations
Factors Affecting Dunking Ability
Dunk Calculator
Calculate how high you need to jump to dunk a basketball based on your height and reach.
How high you can reach while standing (cm)
Standard basketball rim is 305cm
Enter the extra space between fingertips and rim you need to complete a dunk. 15cm is a sensible option for most jumpers.
What is Dunking?
Basketball Dunking Explained
Dunking is a basketball shot where a player jumps high enough to reach above the rim and forcefully throws the ball down through the hoop. The standard basketball rim height is 10 feet (3.05 meters) above the ground.
To successfully dunk, a player needs to have their hand reach at least 10 feet high, plus additional clearance to get the ball over the rim. This requires a combination of height, arm length (standing reach), and vertical jumping ability.
Rim Height Standards
Professional basketball rims are set at exactly 10 feet (120 inches or 305 cm) above the ground. Youth leagues may use lower rims ranging from 8-9 feet depending on age group.
How to Use the Dunk Calculator
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1Select your preferred unit system (imperial or metric)
- 2Enter your height accurately
- 3Measure and enter your standing reach
- 4Click "Calculate" to see your required vertical jump
- 5Review your dunking potential and training recommendations
Measurement Tips
- Measure height without shoes for accuracy
- Standing reach: Reach up as high as possible while flat-footed
- Use a wall to mark your highest reach point
- Measure from floor to your fingertips
- Take measurements multiple times for consistency
- Have someone help you for more accurate results
Factors Affecting Dunking Ability
Several physical attributes and skills contribute to your ability to dunk a basketball:
Physical Attributes
Height
Taller players have a natural advantage as they start closer to the rim.
Standing Reach
Arm length and shoulder width affect how high you can reach while standing.
Hand Size
Larger hands provide better ball control and grip during the dunk.
Athletic Abilities
Vertical Jump
The most trainable factor - how high you can jump from a standing or running start.
Leg Strength
Powerful leg muscles generate the explosive force needed for high jumps.
Coordination
Timing and body control are essential for successful dunking technique.
Training Tips to Improve Your Vertical Jump
Plyometric Exercises
- • Box jumps and depth jumps
- • Jump squats and split lunges
- • Broad jumps and lateral bounds
- • Single-leg hops and bounds
Strength Training
- • Squats and deadlifts
- • Calf raises and toe raises
- • Lunges and step-ups
- • Core strengthening exercises
Flexibility & Mobility
- • Hip flexor stretches
- • Ankle mobility work
- • Dynamic warm-up routines
- • Foam rolling and recovery
Technique Practice
- • Approach and takeoff timing
- • Arm swing coordination
- • Landing mechanics
- • Progressive rim height training
Vertical Jump Standards
Here are general vertical jump standards for different populations:
| Category | Poor | Average | Good | Excellent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High School Male | < 16" | 16-20" | 21-25" | > 25" |
| High School Female | < 12" | 12-15" | 16-19" | > 19" |
| College Male | < 20" | 20-24" | 25-29" | > 29" |
| College Female | < 15" | 15-18" | 19-22" | > 22" |
| Professional | < 28" | 28-32" | 33-37" | > 37" |
Dunking Requirements
For most people to dunk on a 10-foot rim, the required vertical jump varies based on height:
- • 5'6" player: ~36" vertical jump needed
- • 5'10" player: ~30" vertical jump needed
- • 6'2" player: ~24" vertical jump needed
- • 6'6" player: ~18" vertical jump needed