How To Run Warm Up Basketball Drills

Step 1

Every coach has a different philosophy on what a proper basketball warm-up should entail. However, there are three key elements that should become part of every teams warm-up.

Step 2

First, every basketball warm-up should contain an extensive amount of movement and stretching. Ideally, if the team has an adequate amount of time to warm up, they should start with a drill that requires constant movement (ex. layup lines). After the team has had a chance to get their muscles warm, they can stop and take the appropriate time to stretch (usually 10-15 minutes).

Step 3

Second, every basketball warm up should include drills that practice the defensive fundamentals. Participating in these drills reinforces the importance of defense technique and intensity before the game starts. Two great drills that accomplish this task are the "shell drill" and the "zig-zag" drill. The shell drill requires players to be in a proper defensive position as the ball is moved on the perimeter, and the zig-zag drill is a one on one defensive drill that works on staying in front of a ball-handler.

Step 4

Lastly, every warm up should set aside ample time for shooting drills. A great way to accomplish this is to split the team into two separate groups. One group contains the big men and the other group the guards. Set an allotted time for the guards to shoot (while the big men stretch on the side) and then switch the groups at the appointed time.