Page 23 - Jim Stone Book Beginner

Running-forward, backward

Checklist

The ability to run with proper mechanics is an important skill for all players. On the court, some form
of running is important to the approach to attack, blocking movements, defense and serve receive.
Yet, as essential as running is to the execution of correct skills, coaches do not pay sufficient

Sample Activity

 Jog width of the court forward/backward– high knees, relaxed shoulders, bend elbows

 Jog with high knees
 Relax the shoulders, swing the arms
 Butt kicks

 Carioca

 Small steps
 Big Steps
 Focus on the hip turn, core management, arm swing

 Backpedal
 Make sure arms are swinging in relaxed manner

 Run and catch a tossed ball-forward and lateral – emphasize accelerating to the ball. The coach
should toss far enough away to challenge the athlete but allow success in catching. Emphasize
the ability to accelerate to the ball. Make sure the players are running to the ball with proper
running form. A common mistake by young players is running to the ball with their hands
together in preparation for a forearm pass. The players should run to the ball using their arms
and then put their hands together to get to the ball.