Exercise guide
Box Jump Drop 2 Foot Land Diagonal Jump
- Advanced
- Compound
- Rep-based
- Lower legs
- Upper legs
This advanced plyometric drill develops reactive power and eccentric control by combining a depth drop with an immediate change-of-direction jump. It targets the entire lower body, specifically improving the stretch-shortening cycle for explosive athleticism.
Reviewed by the Crucible team · Updated June 2026
Muscles worked
Setup
- Stand on top of a sturdy box or platform (12-24 inches) with your feet hip-width apart.
- Position yourself near the edge, facing forward with a tall, athletic posture.
- Identify your landing target on the floor and the diagonal direction for the subsequent jump.
How to do it
- Step one foot off the box and allow yourself to drop vertically without jumping upward.
- Land simultaneously on both feet with a soft mid-foot strike, immediately absorbing the impact by hinging at the hips and knees.
- Exhale and instantly explode off the ground, jumping as far and high as possible at a 45-degree diagonal angle.
- Land softly on both feet in a balanced squat position, holding for one second to demonstrate total control.
Form checklist
- Land quietly to ensure your muscles, not your joints, are absorbing the impact force.
- Keep your knees tracking in line with your toes; do not let them cave inward upon landing.
- Maintain a neutral spine and engaged core throughout the drop and the jump.
- Use a vigorous upward arm swing to assist with the diagonal explosion.
Pro tips
- Focus on 'hot ground' mechanics by minimizing the time your feet are in contact with the floor between the drop and the diagonal jump.
- Drive your lead knee up and across your body during the diagonal phase to maximize lateral power and distance.
Make it harder
- Increase the height of the starting box to increase the eccentric load and reactive demand.
- Hold a light medicine ball at chest height to add external resistance and further challenge core stability during the transition.
Frequently asked
- What muscles does the box jump drop 2 foot land diagonal jump work?
- The box jump drop 2 foot land diagonal jump primarily targets the calves, glutes, hamstrings, and quadriceps, and also works the abs, hip flexors, and obliques as secondary muscles.
- What equipment do you need for the box jump drop 2 foot land diagonal jump?
- The box jump drop 2 foot land diagonal jump requires no equipment — just your body weight.
- Is the box jump drop 2 foot land diagonal jump good for beginners?
- The box jump drop 2 foot land diagonal jump is rated advanced. Build a base with simpler variations first, then progress to it with light load and strict form.
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