CONDITIONING DRILL 3, EXERCISE 6: STRADDLE-RUN FORWARD AND BACKWARD
Purpose: This exercise develops coordination, balance, and explosive strength in the legs (Figure 9-17).
Starting Position: Straddle stance with arms at the sides.
Cadence: MODERATE
Count:
- Raise the left leg 4 to 6 inches off the ground and bound forward to the left at a 45-degree angle while swinging the right arm forward and left arm rearward.
- Raise the right leg 4 to 6 inches off the ground and bound forward to the right at a 45-degree angle while swinging the left arm forward and right arm rearward.
- Repeat count 1.
- Repeat count 2.
- Raise the left leg 4 to 6 inches off the ground and bound rearward to the left at a 45-degree angle while swinging the left arm forward and right arm rearward.
- Raise the right leg 4 to 6 inches off the ground and bound rearward to the right at a 45-degree angle while swinging the right arm forward and left arm rearward.
- Repeat count 5.
- Repeat count 6 and assume the starting position.
Figure 9-17. Straddle-run forward and backward
Check Points:
- On all counts, do not allow the back to round; keep the head up and the eyes forward.
- On each landing, the feet should be directed forward and the trail foot moves toward the lead foot, but does not make contact with the ground.
Precaution: N/A
