Hurdle mobility drills drills can increase the range of motion in the hips and create balance, stability, and functional power that allows the athlete to combine all these facets into the mechanics of successful sprinting. Hurdle mobility is important because it not only allows athletes to be in a position to be more explosive, but also helps prevent injury by increasing range of motion. In the video clip below you will see two different Hurdle Exchange Drills that will challenge your athletes to be dynamic and help develop their coordination.
The drills are presented by Erik Jenkins, Western Kentucky University Head Men’s & Women’s Track and Field Coach. The clip is from a DVD detailing is training method designed to enhance the explosive power drive in your sprinters. The DVD includes 30 drills to develop and improve sprint mechanic, Bounding and hurdle mobility exercises to develop balance, stability, and coordination within your athletes.
A system of triple extension weight lifting exercises to strengthen and loosen the ankles, knees and hips
For more information on purchasing the DVD click the link Championship Speed and Power Drills: Sprints
The YouTube video below has sound, so please make sure that your sound is turned on and that you have access to the site. Some schools block access to YouTube. If you are viewing in a school setting and cannot view the clip, please contact your network administrator.
The set up for the Hurdle Exchange Drills is as follows:
Six mini hurdles are placed 2-3 steps apart and they are followed by four regular hurdles. The regular hurdles are spaced such that two hurdles could be placed between each hurdle.
Drill 1
The athletes will hop on two legs over the mini hurdles and then shuffle on one foot as the approach the regular hurdles and then a switch legs over the hurdles. Coaching points include keeping your head up, knee up and toe up. Also be sure mot to swing your leg out over the regular hurdles.
Drill 2
The athlete will hop on two legs over the mini hurdles and then a quick cycling alternating over the regular hurdles. Keys coaching point include knee up and toe up over the hurdles