Physical skill is an essential component of being a successful basketball player. The greater a player’s physical ability, the better the player will be able to jump, shoot, and defend against opponents. Maintaining your balance is also important, but this skill often eludes players when it comes to training.
Coach Terrell Theophile of Bigger Than Basketball knows the importance of being a well-rounded player when it comes to basketball. That’s why he incorporates many types of skills training when teaching his students in Albuquerque. The first step to improving balance is to understand why it’s so crucial to the game.
Movement is a key component of basketball. Whether you’re advancing after an opponent or making your way towards the basket, your body will constantly be in motion as you perform. Along with movement in general, it’s often necessary to change positions and directions at a moment’s notice. Basketball is fast-paced, and players must be able to keep up to have a real shot at winning.
No matter how fast you are or how much agility you possess, you won’t be able to perform at a top level unless your balance is good. Balance keeps you on your feet when making sudden maneuvers, and it also allows you to retain control over your body and the space it occupies. Balance is even effective for preventing injuries. The more control you have over your movements, the less likely it is that you’ll fall and injure yourself.
Strengthening your core muscles can help improve your balance, since your body will have greater overall stability. Cross-training is also important. It’s easy to maintain balance and stability when performing the same actions but introducing new exercises and techniques can help you maintain proper balance even when you’re outside your comfort zone.
Coaches often get creative with drills as a way to boost player balance. For instance, some coaches ask that players perform certain maneuvers with their eyes closed, or that they change positions rapidly or alternate speeds when running. It may also be necessary to create individualized balance drills for players for the greatest impact.
Coach Terrell believes in creating well-rounded basketball players, which is accomplished through comprehensive training programs. Along with team play, he also offers one-on-one coaching sessions so that players get the most out of training.