Side Hop-Sprint
Side Hop-Sprint is an exercise designed to improve agility and power. This drill requires you to stand to the side of a cone or hurdle and hop over it sideways, rebounding out of your landing to hop back to where you started. You should hop for a set number of repetitions as quickly as possible, and finish the drill with a sprint. This exercise is great for developing quickness and explosiveness, perfect for athletes in any sport.
Type:
Plyometrics
Muscles Used:
Quadriceps
Level:
Intermediate
Equipment:
Body Only
Benefits Of This Exercise
- Improves agility and power
- Develops quickness and explosiveness
- Increases lower body strength
- Helps to improve coordination and balance
- Increases cardiovascular endurance
- Increases speed and acceleration
- Improves proprioception and reaction time
Step by Step Instructions For Side Hop-Sprint
- Position yourself beside a cone or hurdle.
- Initiate the exercise by performing a sideways hop over the obstacle.
- Upon landing, quickly rebound off the ground and hop back to the starting position.
- Continue hopping sideways over the obstacle for the recommended number of repetitions.
- Conclude the drill by sprinting a short distance once you have completed the final hop.
Warm Up Tips
- Start by standing to the side of a cone or hurdle.
- Begin the exercise by hopping sideways over the obstacle.
- Rebound out of your landing to hop back to where you started.
- Continue hopping for a prescribed number of repetitions.
- Try to complete the hops as quickly as possible.
- Finish the drill by sprinting a short distance upon landing the last hop.
- Remember to maintain proper form and technique throughout the exercise.
- Focus on quick and explosive movements.
- Keep your core engaged and your body stable.
- Breathe deeply and stay relaxed.
- Gradually increase the intensity and speed as you warm up.
Side Hop-Sprint Safety Tips
- Warm up before attempting the Side Hop-Sprint exercise to prevent injuries.
- Make sure the cone or hurdle is secure and stable before starting the drill.
- Maintain proper form throughout the exercise by keeping your back straight and your core engaged.
- Start with a lower height or distance for the obstacle and gradually increase as you become more comfortable and confident.
- Land softly and quietly to reduce the impact on your joints and minimize the risk of injury.
- Avoid overexertion by starting with a manageable number of repetitions and gradually increasing over time.
- Pay attention to your surroundings and make sure there is enough space to perform the exercise safely.
- If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or injuries, consult with a healthcare professional before attempting this exercise.
- Listen to your body and take breaks if you feel any pain or discomfort during the exercise.
- Always cool down and stretch after completing the Side Hop-Sprint exercise to prevent muscle soreness and promote recovery.
Incorporating Into Other Workouts
To incorporate the Side Hop-Sprint exercise into your workouts, you can follow these steps:
1. Warm-up: Start with a dynamic warm-up to prepare your muscles for the exercise. This can include jogging, jumping jacks, and stretching.
2. Set up the cone or hurdle: Place a cone or hurdle to the side of you, creating a clear path for the sideways hops.
3. Side hop over the obstacle: Stand next to the cone or hurdle and begin the drill by hopping sideways over it. Make sure to land softly and maintain good form throughout the movement.
4. Rebound and hop back: As soon as you land on the other side of the obstacle, quickly rebound off your landing and hop back to where you started. The goal is to maintain a fast and continuous movement.
5. Repeat for a set number of repetitions: Perform the side hop and rebound movement for a prescribed number of repetitions. This can vary depending on your fitness level and goals. Start with a manageable number and gradually increase as you get more comfortable.
6. Finish with a sprint: After completing the last hop, immediately transition into a short sprint. This will further challenge your agility and power.
7. Rest and repeat: Take a short rest period after the sprint and then repeat the entire sequence for the desired number of sets.
8. Cool-down and stretch: Once you've finished all the sets, cool down by walking or lightly jogging to bring your heart rate down. Finish with static stretches to