Strength training helps improve flexibility, and helps you build muscle around your joints to protect you from injury during a game or practice. Try these exercises at the gym to put power behind your shots and improve speed on the court.
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Trap bar deadlift- This exercise works your hamstrings, glutes, and back which are the muscles needed for speed and strength.
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box squat – doing this exercise helps you build power and explosiveness. This exercise also strengthens your core so that you don’t break form.
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Dumbbell jump squat – these weighted squats help with coordination and balance.
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Rows- This is a great exercise for your upper-body. This exercise strengthens your back, biceps and the arm and hand muscles you use to grip.
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Sled push- this exercise works all parts of the body. It also helps you develop a quick first step for game day.
You always want to make sure you stretch to protect from injury as well. Here are 3 great stretches you can do to help you get faster and increase stride length.
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Hip flexor stretch
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Split squats
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Lunge jumps
![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0328/2488/5292/files/hipflexstretch_480x480.jpg?v=1605036413)
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