Vertical jumping is one of basic skills in many sports activities. Maximizing vertical jumping performance requires large “power”, which implies that one should generate force against the ground in a short period of time. In order to gain better understandings of how human musculo-skeletal system mechanically functions to achieve maximal power in vertical jumping, the proposed “dynamic catch” mechanism, one of “power amplification” mechanisms through the role of muscle-tendon interaction, was specifically reviewed base on the morphological and mechanical characteristics of lower limb muscle-tendon complex. By understanding basic structural and functional features of human muscle-tendon interaction, this review aims to provide basic scientific information for training and rehabilitation and promote convergence researches in related areas, such as sports biomechanics, mechanical engineering, and sports medicine.
