Every Wednesday, STACK features an Exercise of the Week to help you improve your overall sports performance—including strength, speed, size and flexibility. This week we highlight Sled Drives [a.k.a. Drags], an exercise that develops explosive lower body strength to increase speed and acceleration.
Who’s Doing It

• Marques Colston
• Drew Brees
• University of Georgia Baseball
• Jermaine Gresham
• Gordon Beckham
• UCLA Football

Muscular Benefits

• Develops strength and power in the glutes, quads, hamstrings and calves
• Improves neuromuscular activation and coordination
• Engages core muscles that stabilize the trunk while sprinting

Sports Performance Benefits

• Improves explosive acceleration
• Lengthens stride for increased top speed
• Develops running technique, including a powerful leg and arm drive

Sled Drive Description

• Assume start position with body at approximately 45-degree angle
• Drive off rear leg to begin sprint; maintain 45-degree angle
• Continue sprinting with powerful arm and leg drive for specified yards

Sets/Reps: 4×40 yards [20 yards down and back] Coaching Points

• Focus on driving knees up and arms straight forward
• Maintain forward lean at 45-degree angle
• Perform at maximum effort with light weight
• Perform two to three unloaded starts following drill