Agility exercises can help athletes become quicker on their feet. Whether you're training for soccer, football or another sport, rope ladder drills can help you develop fast footwork. Lay out the ladder on the ground, and make sure you stretch out your muscles before you start your workout.
Sprints
Sprinting across the rope ladder can be an intense workout that helps you develop agile footwork. Run as fast as you can, ensuring each foot steps between the rungs. Try to make sure your foot doesn't get tangled up in the ladder as you run. You can also do a double-step sprint, in which both feet step between each rung. To develop agility, you can sprint through the ladder sideways, crossing one foot over the other.
Every Other Square
You can place a foot in every other square while running through the ladder. This helps you develop longer strides. You can do this drill backward, which works different muscles. Another variation on this ladder drill is to use two feet. As you run through the ladder, place both feet between every other rung. You can perform this drill backward as well.
Hops
Hopping through the rope ladder can build up leg muscles and increase footwork speed. By hopping on one foot either forward or backward, you can strengthen your legs. Make sure you practice one-footed hops with each foot. Other variations on hops include the hopscotch hops, in which you begin with your feet shoulder-width apart outside the ladder. You jump and bring your feet together in the first rung. Hop again and land on one foot in the next rung. Repeat the sequence until you are at the end of the ladder.
Turns
Turning your body is another way you can use the rope ladder. Start outside the ladder and hop into it, turning your body so you land facing in the opposite direction. Continue these 180-degree turns until you are at the end of the ladder. Repeat in the other direction. You can also try 90-degree turns. Stand on one foot and hop forward to the next rung, turning so you land facing to the side. Hop again and land facing forward. On the next hop, turn to the other side. Repeat as you continue hopping.
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