The spike approach is a three-step rhythm: left, right, left-right. Most kids try to jump from a standstill or run flat-footed. The three-step builds momentum into the jump and lifts the body higher than any other footwork.
What you need: Open space, no ball, no net.
Setup: Kid 10 feet behind an imaginary net. Open space to jump.
How to run it:
- Cue: Approach, Plant, Reach, Snap. Today’s focus is Approach.
- Show the three-step rhythm: left foot, right foot, left-right plant. Arms swing back during the second step, forward during the plant.
- Have them mirror it without a jump. 5 reps.
- Add the jump at the end of the plant. Arms swing up. 5 reps.
- Last 3 reps: full speed approach with full jump. Land soft.
What to watch: The rhythm of the steps. Most kids will do “left, right, jump.” The correct rhythm is “left, right, LEFT-RIGHT” with both feet planting nearly together for the takeoff.
If they’re struggling: Walk through it slowly. Mark the foot positions with chalk or tape.
If they’ve got it: Add the spike motion: arm pulls back, swings forward, snaps over the imaginary ball.