Overview
When playing the game of basketball, physical fitness is the key to having success. Combined with a polished skill set, a high level of fitness and athleticism are all elements of most top-tier players. While many pro players possess a certain level of natural ability, none of them would be where they are today without putting in the time training. Basketball training regimens have evolved over the years, and there are currently many different programs employed at all different levels. Each aspect of a player’s game requires attention in order to become a well rounded basketball player.
Strength Training With Weights
Training with weights needs to be an integral part of any training regimen. There are many types of basketball-specific exercises that should find their way into your routine. There are three main principles to keep in mind no matter what individual exercises you follow. Always be sure to train through your entire range of motion. If you do not fully complete the motion of the exercise, you are not getting the full benefit of the exercise. Do not neglect balance exercises. Every serious basketball player needs these in a workout. Be sure to always use power during the exertion part of the exercise. Try to push away the weight as quickly as possible, while maintaining proper form.
Core Exercises
Training the core of your body is essential for a basketball player. An exercise ball is a useful piece of equipment. A large portion of the action on a basketball court is going to involve your core, making it a crucial area during training. When you have a strong core, you will have better balance and better strength.
Vertical Leap
The importance of training in this area cannot be overstated. The ability to jump high is as elementary to a professional basketball player’s skill set as the ability read music is to a musician’s. There are a variety of exercises that will increase a vertical leap, such as working out with a jump rope, running on stadium stairs, wall sits and squats. One-legged jumps are also useful. These are performed by jumping as high as you can off one leg, landing and immediately repeating the process with the other.
Foot Speed and Agility Training
Basketball players must be agile. The ability to move is needed in every facet of the game, so don’t neglect to train in this area or you may find yourself staring at the backs of your opponents more often than you would like. Speed and agility training should ideally be done on grass, as it is easier on the joints than a basketball court. Types of foot speed and agility drills include cone drills, jump rope drills and agility ladder drills.
Considerations
As with any type of sports training, care must be taken to avoid personal injury due to improper technique. Also a player’s level of competition should be taken into account when deciding upon the intensity of the training. It is always wise to consult a personal trainer before implementing any training routine.
About this Author
Andrew Jeromski is a freelance writer based in Boston. He covered Major League Soccer for three seasons for the Lowell Sun newspaper in Lowell, Mass. He has a background in journalism and creative writing, and is also an award-winning writer of fiction.
