by Trey Yocum
When training athletes for strength, an understanding of basic human movements is necessary but understanding how to progress athletes through variations of movements is just as important.
I find the barbell back squat to be the best movements for training athletes but I rarely start with it. I begin with a body weight squat with a band around the knees. This variation allows me to simplify the movement and reinforce proper technique. This will in turn lead to greater performance and decrease risk of injury.
When we use modifications, we can reinforce proper technique. This technique will then carry over to all variations of the movement. In teaching athletes how to train in the body weight squat we see prolonged benefits. As we add implements, such as the barbell, the movement pattern stays more consistent.
In my opinion, there is no substitute for strength. A stronger athlete has greater potential to translate their strength to the field. Proper movement patterns allow for more efficient training. Proper squat technique will allow for more effective back squat training. More effective training will provide the athlete with greater gains in strength. They will in turn be able to perform better on the field as well.
Most important, is that progressing basic movements will decrease the risk of injury. Teaching an athlete proper movement patterns will allow them to train safer. If athletes train safer movement patterns they will tend to use safer patterns on the field.
All in all, take the extra time and coach the little things. Training an athlete will better them for a season but teaching an athlete how to train will better them for their career!
