Speed Training for Team Sports

I have already talked about the different types of speed that can be trained for.

For track and field the key qualities are acceleration and maximum speed (in a straight line). For team sports the key quality is agility. Agility is the term used for multi directional speed.

Another important quality, however, is starting speed. In track and field an effective start is determined by factors such as reaction time and the set up of the starting blocks. In team sports, the primary concern must be body positioning. The athlete must position his body so that he can quickly respond to a stimulus in any direction.

The video below demonstrates good body positioning.



This position, where the feet are placed wider than the hips and the centre of gravity is lowered, is often termed the athletic position. It provides an element of stability whilst also allowing the athlete to apply force to the ground effectively. This allows the athlete to accelerate as quickly as possible in whatever direction may be required.

TIM EGERTON STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING CONSULTANCY