Module 7 - Rhythm Training

In every sport there is a crucial ingredient that very few people either, see or recognize. Yet it is that one “magic” ingredient that really differentiates the truly great players from the good or very good.
It is the ability to “dance”; in every sport there is what is termed “ the dance within the game”.

If a player cannot dance without the ball, how is he supposed to be able to “dance” around his opponent or opponents?

All great players and teams in whatever sport, have the ability to dictate the rhythm of the game. By controlling the rhythm of first the individual, then the team, you control the flow of the game, imposing your rhythm on the opposition (individually and collectively) and is of fundamental importance for success.

What you will learn in Module 7

Rhythm and Tempo Intro
If you're training is always of the same rhythm, then each player, and the team becomes very linear and therefore predictable, and this predictability is the "curse" of unsuccessful players and teams.
By utilizing rhythm and other variants to your training loads, a genuine flow and grace of movement in time and space is developed, training becomes more productive, more enjoyable and more creative players and teams are produced. This chapter explains how.

Rhythm of the Feet
In rhythm training, the importance of establishing a position from which each individual feels balanced and confident is vital. Improving flexibility will allow greater range and speed of movement around this axis. In this video demonstration you will see the process of establishing a good base, with particular care given to the positioning of the feet. With greater confidence the speed of the movements are increased. As the practice develops the upper body plays a more significant part and allows for greater expression, which can help develop confidence. This section is described in detail and comes complete with a video demonstration.

Rhythm and Music
Training to music is one of the best result producing training methods, and if used correctly will be loved by every player. As each culture has its own rhythmic identity, (the Brazilians, samba, Argentineans, the tango, the Spanish, the fandango, the Portuguese, Fado, and so on, it is vital to work within as many of the varieties as possible to acclimatize your players to whatever and whoever they might come up against in their games. This section also provides you with a list of recommended music to train too.

Circle Dynamics
This style of organization is excellent for developing the concept of rhythm.No one feels exposed because no one is isolated.
The movement, if lost, can be retrieved quickly by adopting the timing of the group. This training method is described in detail with 3-D illustration and demonstrated in video.

Team Building
Perhaps the most important task of any coach or manager is to fashion the players available into a cohesive unit. These rhythmic exercises are designed to develop team cohesion and rhythm. Initially, working in pairs the practice is steadily developed to take account of increasing numbers. No one is excluded and the success of the exercise relies on the performance of each individual involved. The rhythm and timing has to be harmonized in order to ensure success. This section is described in detail and comes complete with a video demonstration.

Training Music
Download sample training music composed by course instructor Roger Spry.