How to Measure Standing Reach in 4 Quick and Easy Steps!
Have you ever been asked what your standing reach is and had no idea what to tell the person who asked you?
Of course, if you’re being recruited for college basketball and this is a coach asking, it would be nice to have an answer, right? (Especially if you have an impressive standing reach!)
Sure it would!
I remember being asked this question often during my own recruitment process, along with things like my vertical jump height.
It’s definitely beneficial to have a leg (or an arm) up on the competition by knowing how to measure standing reach.
It’s as easy as grabbing a tape measure, standing flush to a wall, and marking how high you can reach!
Whether you’re an athlete looking to find a baseline to improve your performance or simply curious about your physical abilities, understanding your standing reach can provide valuable insights.
In this blog post, I’ll explore what standing reach is, why it matters, and how to measure it accurately. So, let’s dive right in!
What is Standing Reach?
Standing reach refers to the maximum distance a person can reach while standing upright, typically measured vertically from the ground to the highest point of their extended arm.
It is commonly used in various sports, such as basketball, volleyball, and gymnastics, where height and arm length play crucial roles.
Reasons You Need to Know How to Measure Standing Reach
Knowing your standing reach can benefit you in several ways:
Athletic Performance
In sports like basketball, knowing your standing reach helps determine your ability to block shots, grab rebounds, or make high-flying dunks. It also aids in assessing your overall physical capabilities and measuring vertical jump height.
Check out an NBA basketball game on TV and count how many times they talk about the reach of professional basketball players. This shows the importance of having a good reach in basketball.
This is a major topic that scouts talk about, and having a good standing reach can definitely help a player’s odds of playing basketball overseas or even in the NBA!
Equipment Sizing
Understanding your standing reach is vital when selecting equipment like bicycles, ladders, or furniture. It ensures you choose the right size and avoid discomfort or safety hazards.
Ergonomics
Proper ergonomics at workstations, kitchen counters, or home setups rely on knowing your standing reach. It helps set up optimal heights for desks, shelves, and other surfaces, reducing the risk of strain and injury.
It also helps with getting food from the top shelf!
Step-by-Step Instructions to Measure Your Standing Reach
Knowing your standing reach can provide valuable insights into your physical abilities and be beneficial in various sports, equipment sizing, and ergonomic setups.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions on a good standing reach height test and how to measure your standing reach effectively and with proper technique.
Step 1: Gathering the Required Tools
To measure your standing reach, you will need the following:
A flat surface, such as a wall or vertical measuring device
A measuring tape or ruler marked in inches or centimeters
Step 2: Proper Positioning
Stand barefoot against a flat surface, ensuring your back and heels are touching the wall.
Keep your feet parallel, shoulder-width apart, and arms relaxed by your sides.
You can also measure it with one side of your body flush to the wall. This is the best way of finding out your one-arm standing reach.
Step 3: Measuring Reach Height
With a straight spine, raise one arm fully extended above your head, stretching upward as much as possible while standing flat footed.
Have someone mark the highest point reached by your fingertips on the wall.
Step 4: Recording and Analyzing Results
Carefully measure the distance from the floor to the marked point on the wall using a measuring tape or ruler.
Record the measurement in inches or centimeters.
Repeat the process a few times to ensure accurate results and get your average standing reach.
Key Considerations for Successfully Measuring Your Standing Reach
Find a flat surface against which to measure. A sturdy wall works best, as it provides a reliable and consistent reference point. Stand tall with your back and heels touching the wall, feet parallel and shoulder-width apart. This ensures an accurate measurement of your true standing reach.
Next, extend one arm above your head, reaching as high as possible. Imagine you’re trying to touch the sky! Have someone mark the highest point your fingertips reach on the wall. Make sure not to go on your tip-toes for this!
Now comes the moment of truth. With a measuring tape or ruler, carefully measure the distance from the floor to the marked point on the wall. Write down the measurement in inches or centimeters, whichever tickles your fancy. To ensure precise results, repeat the process a few times and calculate the average.
But why stop at just one attempt? Your standing reach may vary depending on factors such as time of day, level of fatigue, and even your mindset. So, feel free to go for multiple measurements to account for any variations, especially if you’re in a vertical jump program where there is an increased importance in knowing your progress.
Taking it to the Next Level: How to Test Vertical Jump
Let’s start with the standing vertical jump measurement. Find a flat surface and stand sideways against a high wall, using tape, a pencil, or chalk to mark your standing reach.
Now, with all your might, jump straight and as high as you can, reaching for the sky. Measure the distance between your standing reach and the highest point you touched during the jump. This difference represents your standing vertical jump.
For those looking to push their limits even further, the maximum vertical jump is the way to go. Begin by marking your standing reach as before. Then, take a few steps back, gather momentum, and explode into a powerful jump, reaching for the stars.
Measure once again the difference between your standing reach and the highest point you reached during the jump. This measurement represents your maximum vertical jump.
For an even more accurate representation of your vertical jump, grab a vertical jump mat.
Alternative Methods to Measure Your Standing Reach
One method is the Vertical Hop Test, which assesses lower body power and explosiveness. This fitness assessment requires a simple jump, measuring how high you can propel yourself off the ground. It’s like unleashing your inner spring and testing your ability to defy gravity.
Another option is the use of tape or chalk. By applying chalk or marking tape to your fingertips, you can measure the highest point you touch during a jump.
This cost-effective method allows you to visualize your progress by observing the difference in markings over time. It’s like leaving a trail of your vertical conquests behind.
For those looking for a more precise measurement, the Standing Reach Calculator offers a mathematical approach.
By combining an individual’s height with their arm reach, this formula provides an estimate of their standing reach. It’s like solving a puzzle where numbers come together to reveal your true potential.
Conclusion
Understanding your standing reach is valuable for athletes, equipment sizing, and creating ergonomically friendly environments.
It’s as easy as grabbing a tape measure, standing against a wall, and lifting up your arm.
My dad would continuously measure my standing reach as I grew. It was always fun to see how much higher my standing reach got as I got older.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can accurately measure your standing reach and gain insight into your physical abilities.
Remember to take multiple measurements for better accuracy, and don’t hesitate to seek assistance if needed.
So go ahead, grab a tape measure, and start exploring your standing reach today!
FAQ
How do you calculate your standing reach?
Find a flat surface, preferably against a wall, where you can accurately measure your standing reach.
Stand tall with your back and heels touching the wall, feet shoulder-width apart.
Extend one arm above your head, reaching as high as possible. Imagine you’re trying to touch the sky!
Have someone mark the highest point your fingertips reach on the wall.
Using a measuring tape or ruler, carefully measure the distance from the floor to the marked point on the wall.
Write down the measurement in inches or centimeters.
How do you measure vertical reach standing?
Find a flat surface and stand with your back against a wall.
Extend one arm straight up, and make sure to keep your feet flat on the ground.
Have someone mark the highest point you can reach with your fingertips on the wall. Alternatively, you can use a piece of chalk or tape to make the mark yourself.
Step away from the wall and measure the distance from the floor to the marked point on the wall using a measuring tape or ruler.
The measurement you obtain represents your standing vertical reach.
Is standing reach measured with shoes?
It is common to measure standing reach without shoes. This approach ensures consistency and eliminates the variable of different shoe heights.
However, in some scenarios, such as determining reach for daily activities or ergonomic measurements, it may be more practical to include shoes. Including shoes accounts for the additional height they provide and reflects your true standing reach in real-world situations.
Ultimately, the decision on whether to measure standing reach with or without shoes depends on the purpose of the measurement and the specific guidelines or preferences of the activity or assessment being conducted.
