2 Key Factors in Developing Agility
Agility is a crucial aspect of any athlete’s performance, as it allows them to move quickly and change direction with ease. While many athletes focus on developing their speed and strength, agility is often overlooked. In this blog post, we will explore the two key factors we use in Athletic Speed System and Game Speed Agility.
Factor 1: Pre-determent and reactionary movement
Footwork is an essential component of agility training, as it allows athletes to make quick movements and change direction rapidly. In the video, Chris Barnard emphasizes the importance of proper footwork, as it can make or break an athlete’s agility performance.
Pre-determent movements refer to movements or actions that have been predetermined and practiced ahead of time.
For example, running a specific drill with pre-determined footwork patterns in an agility ladder. Simulate game situations where athletes need to react quickly and make spontaneous movements based on visual cues or changes in the environment. For example, the mirror drill mentioned in the previous text, where athletes react and mimic their partner’s movements in real time.
It’s important to note that both pre-determined and reactionary movements are essential in training athletes to improve their agility and performance during actual game time.
To improve your footwork, start with basic drills such as ladder drills and cone drills. These drills focus on quick and precise foot movements, which are essential for agility. As you progress, try incorporating more complex footwork drills such as the “Icky Shuffle” or the “Ali Shuffle.” These drills will challenge your footwork and help you develop the necessary skills for agility.
Factor 2: Reaction Time
Reaction time is another crucial factor in developing agility. The ability to react quickly to a stimulus is essential for athletes in sports such as basketball, football, and soccer. In the video, the trainer demonstrates how reaction time can be improved through various drills.
One effective drill for improving reaction time is the “Mirror Drill.” In this drill, two athletes stand facing each other and mirror each other’s movements. One athlete leads, and the other follows, trying to match their movements as quickly as possible. This drill not only improves reaction time but also helps athletes develop their footwork and coordination.
Another effective drill for improving reaction time is the “Quick Reaction Drill.” In this drill, athletes stand facing each other with a ball between them. One athlete drops the ball, and both athletes try to react and grab the ball as quickly as possible. This drill can be done with a partner or alone, using a wall to bounce the ball off.
By incorporating both footwork and reaction time drills into your training program, you can effectively develop your agility. It is important to note that every athlete’s training program should be tailored to their specific needs and goals. Seeking professional guidance from a coach or trainer can help ensure that your training program is effective and safe.
In conclusion, agility is a crucial aspect of any athlete’s performance, and developing agility requires a focus on both footwork and reaction time. By incorporating the two key factors discussed in this blog post into your training program, you can improve your agility and take your performance to the next level. Remember to always prioritize safety and seek professional guidance when designing your training program.
