Movement Phases: Preparatory, Execution and Follow Through

PREPARATORY PHASE
In a ready position (the movements that get the player ready for the force-producing movements)

EXECUTION PHASE
The execution phase is when one player performs the movements that produce force, impact or propulsion (kicking, bouncing, hitting, spiking, shooting, passing). It is also at the point of contact or release of the movement.

FOLLOW THROUGH PHASE
This is the body movements after the execution phase. This phase is where the movement slows down after impact and the player prepares for the next action. The follow-through is important in slowing the body parts down over a longer period of time, absorbing the forces produced and helping to prevent injuries.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
EXAMPLES:

Soccer - Inside Pass  

Preparation

1.      Face target

2.      Plant balance (non-kicking) foot beside ball

3.      Point balance foot toward target

4.      Square shoulders and hips to target

5.      Flex balance leg slightly at knee

6.      Swing kicking leg backward

7.      Position kicking foot sideways

8.      Arms out to sides for balance

9.      Head steady

10.  Focus on the ball

Execution

1.      Body over the ball

2.      Swing kicking leg forward

3.      Keep kicking foot firm

4.      Contact center of ball with inside surface of foot

Follow-Through

1.      Transfer weight forward

2.      Generate momentum through ball

3.      Smooth follow-through and point your toes up and away from the midline of your body. Contact the center of the ball with the inside surface of your kicking foot. Make sure that your foot is firmly positioned as you follow through with the kicking motion 

Basketball - Bounce Pass
 
Preparation:
• both hands on the ball
• elbows in, wrist cocked, fingers spread
(use finger pads)

Execution:
• step forward with one foot
• extend arms and snap wrists
• bounce ball on floor approximately 2/3 of
the distance between send and target
(bounce pass)

Follow-Through:
• finish with arms extended and palms facing out and thumbs pointing down 

Basketball - Dribbling