Using Squat Hops with Turns to Train Coordination, Balance and Body Awareness in the Air

We use SQUAT HOPPING WITH TURNS to teach coordination, balance and body awareness in the air (as well as on the ground). It is crucial for young athletes to train their bodies to be comfortable in the air and to learn proper landings. If an athlete trains this way, when they are jumping or lunging on the soccer or lacrosse field, basketball or volleyball court (or even mountain) their bodies become very familiar with leaving the ground and returning safely with proper balance.  These young athletes can train their systems to absorb their jumps with engaged abdominals which will stabilize their pelvis and help facilitate light landings. Landing lightly is crucial for the health of their joints as well as their spines!

Here is a group of athletes working on SQUAT HOPPING WITH 90 AND 180 DEGREE TURNS-

Please Note-
-the athlete's fight to get height with their jump so they have time to turn exactly 90 or 180 degrees
-the athlete's fight to spin with pelvic alignment as they lead the turn with their pelvis
-the athlete's fight to coordinate the arm press with the squat as they continuously switch directions with
 each turn

LEVEL 1- 90 DEGREE TURNS WITH A PAUSED HOP BETWEEN
LEVEL 2- 90 DEGREE TURNS WITH A QUICK HOP BETWEEN