Speed and Agility – The Pillars of Athletic Performance
By Mark Keil, CSCS
Posted on July 22, 2024
By Mark Keil, CSCS
Posted on July 22, 2024
Speed and agility are vital components of athletic performance. Speed refers to the distance the athlete can travel in a set amount of time. In contrast, agility refers to the athlete’s ability to change direction quickly while maintaining control of the movement.
Improved speed and agility can directly translate into better performance on the field or court, allowing the athlete to outmaneuver, outrun, and break away from opponents.
Athletes who possess superior speed and agility are often more versatile and adaptable, able to excel in multiple positions or roles within their respective sports.
Both Speed & Agility are critical to being successful in sport.
Training to improve speed and agility often involves a mix of flexibility training, technique refinement, and strength training. This combination creates a more explosive athlete and can reduce the risk of injuries caused by sudden movements.
Flexibility Training helps the athlete maintain flexibility, which is crucial for achieving an optimal range of motion to produce maximal power effectively.
Strength Training involves blending exercises with plyometrics to create explosive power, which is essential for generating speed and quick movements.
Speed workouts often include sprint intervals, resisted sprinting (using resistance bands or sleds), and technique drills to improve acceleration and top-end speed.
After training over 1,000 athletes from grade school to D1 Collegiate and Professional Sports Teams, I’ve found what works. I train athletes weekly to improve change of direction quickness, develop quick feet, enhance coordination, and create explosive speed.
Improving speed and agility requires dedication, proper technique, and structured training.
If you live in Tulsa, Oklahoma and are looking for the Top Youth Speed and Agility Training for your Athlete, then check out my program for free!
Whether your athlete is preparing for competitive sports or aiming to enhance their overall athleticism, investing in speed and agility training can significantly improve performance, reduce the likelihood of sport-related injury, and increase overall athletic ability.
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