Basketball training

Basketball places extreme demands on the players, requiring a combination of strength, power, explosive jumping, and endurance, to name but a few. It requires a system of training that can adequately prepare the body for the rigors of the game. As with any training program, the ultimate aim is to improve your performance, especially towards the end of a game.

Although strength is not the first attribute people usually associate with basketball, a quick look at the physiques of today's leading players shows how crucial it is. Strength comes into play not only when you're muscling your way under the rim to grab a rebound, but also when you're trying to drain a three pointer late in a game. Strength is the prerequisite that allows you to perform these skills.

Flexibility is crucial for basketball, due to the vast array of dynamic movements needed to pay the game. Being able to move freely and easily through a wide range of motion is vital.

Basketball probably involves more jumping than any other sport. The way to develop your jumping ability is through the practice of plyometrics. Plyometrics is a system of training for power or explosiveness to enhance athletic performance, and should be a part of any basketball player's training program.

Endurance is vital for basketball players - just think how many times you ruin up and down the court in a game! Training for endurance will allow you to perform vital skills just as well at the end of the game as you do at the start. The fast break is one of the most exciting parts of basketball, and whether you aim to keep up on offense or get back on defense, you need speed. Speed is developed by regular sprinting drills, performed either on a track or on the court.

Of course none of this is any good if you can't put it into practice, so your workouts should also involve court specific skills such as back pedaling, defensive sliding, changes of direction and the ability to plant off of either foot.