Whether in-season, out-of-season, or in quarantine, multi-directional speed exercises are always important for athletes. Our Parisi Franklin Lakes may be closed, but that does not mean training has to stop. All of these exercises can easily be done at home to continue improving speed and agility.
Diagonal Hops
Diagonal hops are done with feet together, athletic stance, and hips lowered. Athletes will go through the ladder forwards and then backwards. It is important to focus on both feet touching the ground at the same time. This exercise is key for keeping the athletes footwork fast, but controlled.
Lateral 1 In 2 Out
Lateral 1 In 2 out starts out very slow, almost with a walk. Then moves into a jog with one foot in the ladder, two feet out along the outside of the ladder. The athlete should slowly add speed and coordination as they continue going through the ladder, remembering to keep the hips low. The focus here is increasing footwork speed, while staying accurate within the ladder.
Speed Skaters
Speed skaters will use the ladder as a reference point. Athletes will explode out as far away from the ladder as possible on each rep, driving up the ladder and then eventually down the ladder. The goal here is to cover as much distance away from the ladder by driving away. The drive is critical for building speed, so it is necessary to increase that strength in the legs.
Stay On Top Of Your Game While You Stay At Home
All of these exercises will keep athletes on track, keeping in mind the perfect form they have developed while working at Parisi. Focus is key at a time like this, and this focus can easily take place at home.
If you have any questions about keeping your athlete engaged and at their best, email us at [email protected]!