09/09/2026
Change of direction starts before the direction changes.
An athlete does not simply plant their foot and push in a new direction.
They first have to manage the speed they are already carrying.
An athlete accelerating for a few metres has different demands from an athlete entering a change of direction at much higher velocity. The faster they are moving, the more momentum they have to control.
This is where deceleration becomes important.
The athlete needs to apply braking forces into the ground to reduce velocity and control their centre of mass.
Where the foot lands matters.
Where the centre of mass is positioned matters.
The position of the trunk, hips, and lower limbs matters.
These factors influence how effectively the athlete can manage their momentum and prepare to produce force in the new direction.
If the athlete cannot control their position during braking, the next phase becomes less efficient.
They may have to spend more time regaining control before they can accelerate again.
The direction changes. But the athlete does not necessarily change direction efficiently.
This is why change-of-direction training is not simply about how quickly an athlete can push off the ground.
It is about what happens before that push.
Decelerate.
Position.
Control.
Redirect.
Accelerate.
For young athletes, these qualities need to be developed progressively.
Build the strength and coordination to produce and control force. Develop the ability to accelerate and decelerate. Then progressively increase the speed and complexity of the movement.
Good speed training is not only about producing force.
It is about managing force at the right time and in the right direction.
You cannot efficiently change direction if you cannot first control the direction you are already moving.