Best Exercises For Basketball Players
When you look at the physique of a competitive basketball player it becomes apparent which muscle groups are prioritized and which are not. Whether you’re a gym rat, weekend warrior, or you have kids trying to get better at competitive sports – here’s a list of the best exercises for basketball players.
Lower Body Exercises
Squats
Leg drive and strength is by far the most important element when it comes to resistance training for basketball. Squats work nearly every lower body muscle group to some degree, and are a must-do for almost every sport.
Calf Raises
Quick twitch explosiveness can get a boost with more powerful calves. They’re a small muscle group, but they do a lot of work during a game.
See Also: How to lose 20 pounds really fast
Upper Body Exercises
Shoulder Presses
If your shoulders are reaching fatigue before the rest of your body, to the point you can barely lift your arms, add some shoulder press work.
Lat Pulldowns
If your back is hurting from leaning on other players, you can improve your strength and performance with lat work.
See Also: Intermittent fasting for fat loss
Core Exercises
Need to lose 10 pounds fast?
Try this three week diet. It has detailed meal and exercise plans to help you lose 5-7 pounds in the first week, and up to 20 pounds after three weeks.Endurance Exercises
High Inensity Interval Training (HIIT)
HIIT seems tailor made for basketball players, as it mimics much of the cardio stress you’ll experience during a game.
What You Shouldn’t Do (As Much)
All forms of strength are beneficial in competitive sports, so the exercises listed aren’t bad and won’t diminish your performance but they’re not at the top of the list for how you should spend your time.
Bicep Curls
Yeah, bulging biceps look impressive but they’re not going to help much on the court. If you’re going to spend some time on your arms prioritize your forearms to improve hand, and gripping, strength.
Bench Press
If you’re in the trenches, your ability to move or get moved won’t be determined by how much you bench press. You can’t fully extend your arms, or shove people out of your way. Your leg, back, and core strength is what makes you immovable, not your max bench press.
Deadlifts
Leg drive plays a role in deadlifts, but it’s only a supporting role. You’re placing your back in tremendous risk of injury for strength gains that won’t translate well on the court.
Need to lose 10 pounds fast?
Try this three week diet. It has detailed meal and exercise plans to help you lose 5-7 pounds in the first week, and up to 20 pounds after three weeks.See Also