Dennis wrote the following: “Can
you please share your thoughts on why you don’t like the straight leg marches
and the 1-leg rdl’s?” I believe the straight leg marches cause
hamstring problems. They are too ballistic in warm-up. As far as one leg RDL or
the RDL for that matter, if you are doing them to strengthen hamstrings, there
are better more functional alternatives – the multidirectional lunge and the
high step-up. I think the RDL is a good assistance/ remedial exercise for Olympic
lifter, not athletes who have sprint or jump.
Another couple of thoughts on
warm-up. It is very important to carefully consider the order in the selection
of exercises in the warm-up. I no longer include jogging; we stride 6 x 30 to 50
meters. Jogging just reinforces poor running mechanics and sloppy foot strikes.
Pre game or competition warm-up needs to flexible. You need to make sure that
essential elements are done, but you must be adaptable. If the team or
individual is too hyped up then do things in warm-up that calm them down. Too
passive get them amped up.
Jurij Kozjek
Hi, Vern and everyone
I ‘m an athlete myself and I just want to add that to start a warm-up with jogging, doesn’t feel good to me. I prefer to do progressive strides that are build-up in to a few short, faster and relaxed runs.
Dennis A.
Thanks for the response Vern… I appreciate it very much.
Health and Fitness
Straight leg marches, should be avoided at all costs, a path way to injury.