How to Get in Shape for Basketball

Sitting on the couch, watching college hoops, eating potato chips and drinking beer ... these are noble undertakings. Do not let anyone dismiss their importance. However, should you wish to play a bit of basketball for your own enjoyment, you'll need to pursue a more active course.

Things You'll Need

  • Athletic Socks
  • Basketball Uniforms
  • Basketball Hoops
  • Basketball Shoes
  • Basketballs
  • Home Gyms
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Instructions

    • 1

      Get off the couch.

    • 2

      Dig around in your closet until a pair of tennis shoes presents itself. You should find high-tops and perhaps some cross-trainers.

    • 3

      Grab the running shoes and go for a jog. After a slow quarter-mile, stop to stretch your hamstrings, quads, calves, shins and groin equally. Stretch your upper body and arms, and then continue running. Start with a mile or two and work over time for a greater distance and faster pace.

    • 4

      Install a driveway hoop or find a local park.

    • 5

      Practice your standing shots, jumpers and free throws.

    • 6

      Find a pick-up game and join in. Play until you feel sick. Return the next day and play again.

    • 7

      Hit the local track and run wind sprints - a series of short, quick sprints with little rest in between repetitions.

    • 8

      Do crunches and push-ups at home. The sit-ups (in addition to helping you with that washboard stomach) will help equalize the back muscles, helping avoid strain. Push-ups help stretch and strengthen the arms, increasing blood flow and allowing them to remain aloft longer.

Tips & Warnings

  • Play basketball, play basketball, play basketball.

  • If you have any condition that would impair or limit your ability to engage in physical activity, please consult a physician before attempting this activity.

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Comments

View all 39 Comments
  • SportsFan May 22, 2008
    Tip Numero Uno is by far the most important!
  • SportsFan May 22, 2008
    Tip Numero Uno is by far the most important!
  • SportsFan May 22, 2008
    Tip numero uno is by far the best!
  • SportsFan May 22, 2008
    Tip numero uno is by far the best!
  • Aug 28, 2006
    To improve in the game of basketball you should try to be a player who can do it all. By that I mean shoot threes, two's, foul shots, crossovers, fakes, spins, blocks, steals and play-making assists, to do this find and study a NBA player who can execute it with excellence. E.g. Jordan with the fade away, Iverson with the crossover and practice it. If you want to dunk, go to your nearest park and do a few laps in your spare time. Do 50 jumps with extended arms constantly everyday for 3-4 months you will add extra height. If you go longer you will dunk one day. Defense: learn to stay on your man don't foul and makes it hard for him to shoot a jumper or drive. That's your job as a defender.

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