Backpedal-To-Sprint Transition

Backpedal to a cone, turn the hips and sprint forward. Drills the specific moment of flipping from moving backwards to full forward acceleration.

DIFFICULTY
Intermediate
EQUIPMENT
Cones
PRIMARY MUSCLES
Quads · Glutes
ALSO WORKS
Hamstrings · Hip Flexors · Calves · Gluteus Medius
HOW TO DO IT
  1. 01Set two cones ten yards apart and start at the far one facing back down the course.
  2. 02Backpedal toward the second cone with the chest forward of the hips and short, quick steps.
  3. 03At the cone, plant the outside foot and open the hips ninety degrees toward the direction you want to go.
  4. 04Drive the first step out hard and sprint ten yards through the finish.
  5. 05Walk back and run 4 to 6 reps, opening to each side an equal number of times.
COACHING CUES
  1. 01Chest over the toes on the backpedal.
  2. 02Open the hip, do not spin around.
  3. 03First step drives out, not up.
COMMON MISTAKES
  1. 01Leaning back while backpedalling — the weight goes behind the feet and there is nothing to push off when you turn.
  2. 02Turning with a full 180 spin — you lose sight of the field and add a wasted step.
  3. 03Taking a false step backwards before accelerating — that step costs you the whole advantage the drill is meant to build.

Note: Reference material, not a prescription. Load, volume and whether this movement suits you at all depends on your assessment — if something hurts, stop and get it looked at.

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