How to Get Good Footwork

Good footwork is a very important skill that any person needs in order to excel in whatever sport you decide to participate in. Good footwork will allow you to not only increase your speed, but it can also prevent injuries. In the process of gaining good footwork, you are also conditioning your body by getting an adequate amount of cardiovascular exercise. Follow the instructions listed in this article, and you will soon be on your way to mastering the skill of great footwork.

Instructions

1. Stretch prior to starting any type of exercise and after its completion. Stretching your muscles is crucial to your physical well being, and it can contribute to the success of your workout regime. Stretching prior to the workout prepares the muscles for the task ahead. Stretching after the exercise helps to condition the muscles and will prevent any cramps from happening later on.

2. Draw circles. Getting good footwork can be achieved by many different exercises that is very easily accessible and at a low cost. One way to work on your footwork is to get a package of washable sidewalk chalk and draw five circles. The circles should be made in a pattern of two, one, two. Working these circles can be done by hoping on all five or by working them hop scotch style. The workout you can get with something as easy as five circles is limitless.

3. Jump rope. Working toward good footwork can also be achieved by buying a jump rope. Jump ropes come in all shapes and sizes. Make sure that measure out the length so that it will fit to your height and arm length when picking your rope. While jumping with the jump rope, you should jump on one foot at a time and then the other. You can also alternate each foot. Doing so helps with footwork and balance.

4. Use steps. Finding a step is a great way to help maintain great footwork. Athletes often run bleachers. If you do not have any bleachers close by, a nice step of any shape or size works out great. The step can be attached to a house or just an individual step that you have made or purchased. Work on your footwork by starting out jumping with both feet on top of the step and then back down. Practice jumping up and down the step on one foot at a time. Try alternating back and forth.

5. Be creative. Gaining good footwork can be achieved in many ways, but you can get very creative depending up what you have available and how much money you have to spend on workout equipment. One totally free way to work on good footwork is to practice what is often called "dipsy-doodle". The dipsy-doodle is performed by running sideways and alternating feet. Start out by placing the right foot in front of the left and then the right behind the left while moving across the field or yard for about twenty yards.

Tips & Warnings

• Getting good footwork can be accomplished by anyone. It is important to remember to be creative, and you will be surprised at what you can find to help in the process.

• Before starting a rigorous exercise program, always consult your physician first.