Vertical Leap Training?

[CarlS]

When my health (i.e. immune system) improves, I plan on training for vertical leap gains for basketball. Would the first video of Leg-Fencing be a good place to start for a stable foundation and spring legs? I was wondering, what other physical characteristics are involved in leaping? For example, hip and spinal mobility? The poor leapers tend to become rigid in the air, the great leapers are fluid and even seem to execute spinal waves in the air.

Are there any biomechanical exercises from any of the videos which help with vertical leap specifically?

Are plyometric shoes (e.g. http://www.strength-shoes.com) helpful or are they hazardous to your movement and health?

I'm 21, with no injuries, and really want Vince Carter-like elevation and body control in a few years time, but not by causing great damage to myself.

Any advice would be appreciated.

[hanutaustin]

I'm using strength shoes right now. They're not necessary but they help. You could do a plyometric program without them doing depth jumps, bounding, rim jumps. I've heard some negative rumors about them but I think they're safe as long as you stay within your limits. They really stress your calf muscle and if you continue exercising in a fatigued state, the shock/stress could go to other areas of your body - your knees, ankles, joints, ligaments, etc.

Using strength shoes offers more convenience though; it's like one less thing to think about. You don't have to do isolated calf raises because any leg exercise you do, whether its running, agility drills, or jumping, will incorporate your calves.