1. Be Specific
Different sports utilize different muscle groups. Consequently it is important to choose a basketball conditioning program that specifically trains those muscles that a basketball players uses. The primary muscles used in basketball are the arm and leg muscles. Not only are the muscles important but the types of drills that train those muscle groups are paramount. Basketball is a game played in short bursts where players rarely sprint for an extended period of time, and the drills should cater to these short bursts of activity. Therefore, when you are shopping for a basketball conditioning program remember the specifics of the sport and choose accordingly.
2. Basketball is Fundamental
Nightly sports shows emphasize the high-flying acrobatic plays but when it comes down to it, basketball is a game rooted in the fundamentals. Programs that constantly refer to increasing your vertical leap as opposed to the basic basketball movements are great if you want to make the highlight reels but no so great if you want to be a better basketball player. While the vertical leap is helpful, lateral speed on defense is more germane to an overall well rounded set of skills. A conditioning program needs to incorporate substance over style.
3. Run Away from Boredom
Have you ever stuck with anything that bores and does not challenge you? I would wager that most people have not. Select a basketball-conditioning program that is engaging and incorporates a wide variety of drills that keeps your attention. While a program needs to push a person athletically, if the drills are too repetitive the participants will not achieve maximum success. Make sure the program shuttles players quickly from drill to drill with as little standing around as possible.
4. Rest and Hydrate
Fluid and rest breaks are requirements of a basketball conditioning program. Often you can be carried away with a conditioning program and forget to hydrate or rest as necessary. Rest and hydration keep an athlete operating at an optimal level. A player can lose focus and break down physically if the program does not integrate these precautions. When was the last time you saw a basketball game without timeouts or where fluids were withheld from players? The entirety of the program should mimic game type situations and that includes rest and water.
5. Know Your Limits
Most post players think they are guards, and vice versa. This type of thinking can be detrimental to a basketball conditioning program. A player must know their strengths and their role on the court and not train against those facts. A post player should condition more for strength because their job is to get rebounds and block shots. Conversely, a guard would train more for quickness because their games hinge on the ability to score, run the floor and handle the basketball.
Member Comments