CONDITIONING: THE MOST IMPORTANT AND MOST UNDERVALUED QUALITY FOR SUCCESS
BY GEORGE GALIOTOS, M.Sc., DIRECTOR OF PLAYER DEVELOPMENT, RICK MAHORN BIG MAN CAMP
At the Rick Mahorn Big Man Camp we expect participants to show up in good physical shape. Those that are not in good shape always fare more poorly and can sometimes hold the entire group back.
We also devote time at the camp's outset to conditioning drills. While participants might wonder why we focus on this when they are, after all, coming for the thing in which we excel, the big man's game, there are a number of reasons why this is for us an important building block.
1. ESTABLISING A BASELINE. Conditioning exercises at the beginning of a basketball camp allow coaches to assess the fitness levels of participants. It helps coaches to gauge the players' endurance, strength and overall fitness. The baseline assessment can guide the training program and help identify areas that need strengthening.
2. INJURY PREVENTION. Conditioning exercises prepare the body for the physical demands of basketball and the 2-a-day sessions at the camp. By incorporating conditioning at the start of the camp, players can gradually build up their strength, flexibility and endurance, reducing the risk of injuries during more intense drills and scrimmages. Proper conditioning helps strengthen muscles, joints, and connective tissue, making them more resilient to the stresses of the sport.
3. SKILL ENHANCEMENT. Conditioning drills can serve as a foundation for developing basketball-specific skills. When players are physically fit, they can execute technical movements more effectively (correctly) and efficiently (least stress on the body). Conditioning improves coordination, balance, agility and overall athleticism, which are essential for performing such basketball skills as shooting, dribbling and defending.
4. TEAM BONDING. Engaging in conditioning exercises together at the beginning of camp fosters a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. It helps players develop a shared work ethic and mindset, setting the tone for the rest of the camp. Going through physical challenges together as a team can help build trust, unity and a strong team dynamic.
5. MENTAL PREPARATION. Conditioning drills often push players outside of their comfort zone, summoning mental resilience and the discipline to persevere. By starting the camp with conditioning, players increase their mental toughness and develop the mindset needed to overcome physical and mental obstacles. This mental preparedness can translate to improved focus, determination and confidence throughout the camp and beyond.
6. PERFORMANCE ENHANCEMENT. When players are well conditioned, they can perform at their best during drills, scrimmages and competitive games. Improved endurance allows players to maintain a high level of energy throughout the week. This in turn leads to better skills execution, decision-making, and overall performance on the court.
By prioritizing conditioning at the start of the camp, participants can 1) establish a solid foundation of physical fitness, 2)reduce the risk of injuries, 3) enhance skill development, 4) foster team unity, and 5)prepare mentally for challenges during games and outside of basketball as well.
Comments
Post a Comment