The Band Man

Hey Basketball fans,

I just did a great interview with David Schmitz. He is known as the the Band Man. The reason being is he works with elastic bands during his training sessions. Obviously it is more than just working with bands- David designs programs and training protocol off band training.

The reason I am talking about this today is because I am a big fan of using band and other forms of resistance training to increase horizontal, rotational, and gravitational forces. But of course it has to be done correctly.

After a basketball player has learned how to move correctly in all directions under his or her own body wt and mechanics. I will introduce resistance training in order to increase the neurological response and adaptation. I want the athlete to be able to apply more force more quickly. This is where we want all athletes at some point- FASTER! Let me share with you a few great resisted drills for bball players:

1. Resisted lateral shuffle- when I want to increase the ability to absorb forces and decelerate better I will have the athlete start away from the attachment point and shuffle a couple steps and decelerate moving toward the attachment. The athletes must stay "In the Tunnel" and create a good angle to decelerate. This should be done under control and gradually increase speed. If I want to increase speed and power I have the player shuffle away from the attachment. This increase force production.

2. Forward Acceleration- I will have the athlete accelerate powerfully for 3-4 steps away from the attachment point. Use proper arm and leg action an stay low and forward.

3. Crossover Acceleration- The player will now accelerate using a crossover step/directional step for 2 steps. This move is KEY for a basketball player.

4. Reverse jump stop- I think it is important for players to be able to jump stop or split step moving backwards. I want the player to be balanced and forward oriented with their body position. This exercises is a great exercise to teach them to load correctly.

Try these drill/skills out with light bands and see what happens. I think you will be pleasantly surprised with the results.

Play Hard,

Lee

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