Backward Jump

Learn how to do the Backward Jump with proper form and technique. This body weight exercise primarily targets your Quads, with secondary emphasis on Hamstrings, Glutes, Calves.

Backward Jump exercise demonstration showing proper form

How to Do the Backward Jump

Follow these steps to perform the Backward Jump with correct form:

  1. 1Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. 2Bend your knees slightly and jump backwards, pushing off with both feet.
  3. 3Land softly on the balls of your feet, bending your knees to absorb the impact.
  4. 4Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Backward Jump Muscles Worked

Primary

Secondary

hamstringsglutescalves

Exercise Details

Equipment
body weight
Body Part
upper legs
Category
Extended

Recovery & Training Frequency

Recommended Recovery Time
2–3 days
Weekly Frequency
2–3 sessions per week
Why
Isolation work on large muscles produces targeted damage but lower systemic fatigue than compound variants. 48–72 h between sessions is generally adequate for intermediate trainees.

Sets & Reps by Goal

Strength

Sets
3–4
Reps
5–8
Rest
90–120 s

Isolation movements can be trained with moderate loads for strength, though peak strength expression is secondary to compound lifts.

Hypertrophy

Sets
3–5
Reps
10–20
Rest
45–90 s

Isolation exercises shine in the 10–20 rep range with a 2-second eccentric. Taking the final set close to failure drives maximum hypertrophic stimulus.

Endurance

Sets
2–4
Reps
20–30
Rest
20–45 s

Light-load, high-rep isolation work is useful for rehab, joint health, and pump-focused training.

Which Workout Splits Include Backward Jump?

Based on the muscles this exercise targets, it fits naturally into these training splits and day types:

P

Push / Pull / Legs

Leg Day

U

Upper / Lower

Lower Day

F

Full Body

Any session

B

Bro Split

Leg Day

Training Day Types:legslower

Not sure which split is right for you? Cora builds personalised training plans that match your schedule and goals. Learn more about progressive overload.

Related Exercises

Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does the Backward Jump work?

The Backward Jump primarily targets your Quads. Secondary muscles worked include Hamstrings, Glutes, Calves. This makes it an effective exercise for developing your upper legs.

Do I need equipment for the Backward Jump?

No. The Backward Jump is a bodyweight exercise that requires no equipment. You can perform it anywhere with enough space.

How do I perform the Backward Jump with proper form?

Start by Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Bend your knees slightly and jump backwards, pushing off with both feet. Land softly on the balls of your feet, bending your knees to absorb the impact. Focus on controlled movement throughout the entire range of motion. See the full step-by-step instructions above for complete form guidance.

How often should I do the Backward Jump?

For most people, allow 2–3 days between sessions targeting the same muscle group. That translates to 2–3 sessions per week. Isolation work on large muscles produces targeted damage but lower systemic fatigue than compound variants. 48–72 h between sessions is generally adequate for intermediate trainees.

What are the best sets and reps for the Backward Jump?

It depends on your goal. For strength: 3–4 sets of 5–8 with 90–120 s rest. For hypertrophy (muscle growth): 3–5 sets of 10–20 with 45–90 s rest. For endurance: 2–4 sets of 20–30 with 20–45 s rest.

Which workout splits is the Backward Jump best for?

The Backward Jump fits well into the following training splits: Push / Pull / Legs (Leg Day), Upper / Lower (Lower Day), Full Body (Any session), Bro Split (Leg Day). It is classified as a legs, lower movement.

Track Backward Jump in Cora

Cora creates AI-powered workout plans that adapt to your recovery. Log exercises, track progress, and get personalized coaching.

Download Cora for iOS