Spring Basketball Workout #4

In Practice Plans by Brock Bourgase

Emphasis: lower body strength, speed, one-dribble attack, post play

Summary: I wanted to introduce the players to some of the sport-specific lower body exercises that could be performed in the weight room. There is a tendency to overuse the leg extension and hamstring curl machines (everyone seems to gravitate to those machines at the moment); although they do help build lower body muscles, they lack a stability component that is needed for basketball. If a weight room mostly has machines, it should be supplemented with free weight, kettle bell or medicine ball activities that force players to engage their core & remain stable.

All players require post play skills. Firstly, it instructs body control, balance & footwork that can help all positions. Secondly, it offers athletes multiple techniques for finishing their cuts near the basket. Everyone should feel comfortable entering the paint.

Reflection: My time management was below my expectations and I spent more time instructing in the weight room than I wanted to. The skill development sessions were effective enough but it is a reminder that planning does not guarantee an excellent workout. I will do better in the future.