
Weight training is an important aspect of basketball as it helps players develop strength, which is a key physical performance characteristic. The question of whether athletes should lift during the basketball season is a common one, with some coaches and players preferring to separate lifting and basketball practice, while others opt for a more integrated approach. The timing of lifting sessions can depend on various factors, such as the type of workout, the athlete's goals and skill level, and the constraints of their schedule. Ultimately, the decision to lift during the basketball season involves weighing the benefits of strength training against the potential impact on performance and recovery.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effect on shooting accuracy | Minimal to no impact |
| Effect on shooting mechanics | Minimal to no impact |
| Upper-body training | Should be performed post-training sessions to minimize the effect on shooting accuracy |
| Training intensity | Key to maintaining and improving strength |
| Training timing | Before or after practice, or as a separate session |
| Consistency | Important for long-term results |
| Benefits | Fewer injuries, improved strength and performance |
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What You'll Learn

Lifting weights can improve performance and reduce injuries
Weight training can also help prevent injuries and aid in the rehabilitation process. It builds muscular strength, endurance, and stability, reducing the likelihood of common injuries like sprains, strains, and fractures. Additionally, strong muscles serve as reinforcements for joints, further lowering the risk of injuries. After an injury, strength training helps players regain lost strength, flexibility, and functionality, expediting recovery and reducing the risk of re-injury.
There are various ways to incorporate weight lifting into a basketball training regimen. It can be done using machines, free weights, or body weight. It is important to gradually increase the weight being lifted to avoid overexertion and injury. Coaches may schedule lifting sessions separately from basketball practice to allow for higher-intensity training. When scheduling constraints exist, performing resistance exercises before practice has been found to have minimal to no effect on shooting accuracy, debunking the myth that lifting weights will hurt one's game.
Overall, lifting weights can indeed improve performance and reduce injuries in basketball players. By incorporating weight training into their regimens, players can develop the strength and power needed to excel on the court while also building physical resilience to withstand the demands of the sport.
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Lifting before or after practice is a personal preference
Lifting weights is an essential part of basketball training, as it helps players maintain adequate strength levels and prevents injuries. However, the question of whether to lift before or after practice has sparked some debate.
Some sources suggest that lifting weights before practice is beneficial. For example, resistance training before basketball practice can "prime" the neuromuscular system, and one study found that it had minimal effect on shooting accuracy. Additionally, lifting weights before practice allows players to train with higher intensity and volume.
On the other hand, others argue that lifting after practice is preferable. This is because players are often tired after practice and may not be able to perform important lifts safely. Lifting after practice may also negatively impact shooting accuracy, although this effect disappears after 30 minutes of shooting drills.
Ultimately, the decision to lift before or after practice depends on individual preferences and goals. Some players may find that they have more energy and focus at the beginning of their training day, making it a better time to lift weights. Others may prefer to get their basketball practice out of the way first and may feel that lifting weights before practice would hurt their game.
Consistency in lifting weights is also important for maintaining and improving strength throughout the season. This may mean fitting in short lifting sessions when time constraints make longer workouts impossible.
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Upper-body training may negatively impact shooting accuracy
Cabarkapa's study examined the effects of basketball-specific lower- and upper-body resistance training regimens on the biomechanical parameters of the shooting motion. The study recruited 10 basketball players with more than four years of playing experience and more than two years of resistance training experience. The findings suggest that performing resistance exercises before basketball practice has a minimal effect on shooting accuracy, and that any slight effect on shooting accuracy can be minimised by performing upper-body training protocols post-training sessions.
However, it is important to note that the timing of lifting sessions may depend on various factors, such as the availability of time and facilities. For example, CSKA Moscow prefers to schedule lifting sessions separately from basketball practice to allow for higher-intensity training, but this may not be feasible for all teams. In such cases, performing resistance training before basketball practice may be recommended as it can "prime" the neuromuscular system for the upcoming activity.
Additionally, the type of workout may also influence the timing of the lifting session. For instance, high-rep, low-weight workouts are typically done before basketball practice, while high-weight, low-rep workouts are done after. Ultimately, the decision to lift before or after basketball practice may depend on the individual's goals and skill level. For instance, introducing different stresses, such as lifting before shooting with fatigued arms, can help improve shooting form and maintain form while tired.
Furthermore, consistency in lifting throughout the competitive season is crucial for maintaining and improving strength. Even short "micro-doses" of resistance training can be beneficial when scheduling full workouts is not possible. This can help to maintain previous gains and build athleticism, ensuring that athletes do not lose the strength they gained during the off-season.
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Consistency is key for long-term results
Consistency is key when it comes to lifting during the basketball season. While there are differing opinions on whether to lift before or after a basketball practice, the consensus is that consistent resistance training throughout the season is crucial for maintaining strength and improving performance.
Fatigue, travel schedules, logistics, and other constraints can often get in the way of a consistent lifting routine. However, even short, intense sessions can help athletes maintain their gains and build athleticism. For example, performing resistance exercises before basketball practice has been shown to have a minimal effect on shooting accuracy, contrary to popular belief.
To maintain adequate levels of strength gained during the off-season, continuous participation in resistance training regimens is essential. Strength is a key physical performance characteristic for basketball players, and consistent lifting can help prevent injuries and improve overall performance.
Consistency in lifting can also help athletes stay focused and motivated throughout the season. By incorporating lifting into their routine, athletes can ensure they are physically and mentally prepared for competition.
Additionally, consistent lifting can help athletes manage their fatigue. While some athletes prefer to lift before practice to "prime" their neuromuscular system, others find that lifting after practice compromises their intensity due to fatigue. Finding a consistent routine that works for the athlete's schedule and goals is crucial.
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Lifting weights before a game can be invigorating
Lifting weights is an essential part of basketball training, and doing so before a game can have several benefits. Strength is a key physical performance characteristic that basketball players need to possess, and lifting weights helps maintain and improve strength throughout the season.
The timing of lifting sessions is important. It is generally recommended to lift weights in a separate session from basketball practice, as this allows for higher-intensity training. However, when this is not possible due to time or facility constraints, lifting weights before practice is preferable to lifting after. This is because players are more rested and focused at the beginning of their training day, and lifting weights after an intense basketball practice may lead to low motivation, compromised intensity, and safety concerns.
Additionally, the type of weightlifting performed should be considered. For example, high-rep, low-weight lifting is often done before a game, while high-weight, low-rep lifting is done after. Upper-body weightlifting may negatively impact shooting accuracy immediately following the session, but this effect disappears after 30 minutes of shooting drills. Therefore, it is recommended to perform upper-body weightlifting after practice or ensure a sufficient break before shooting drills.
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Frequently asked questions
There are mixed opinions on this. Some people recommend lifting before playing basketball as it will "'prime" the neuromuscular system for the upcoming activity. Others suggest that lifting after playing basketball is better as it helps build athleticism. Ultimately, it depends on your goals and skill level.
Consistency is key when it comes to lifting during basketball season. Even short (15-20 minute) sessions can be enough to maintain previous gains and build athleticism. Players should be lifting at least 10-11 months out of the year.
Lifting weights during basketball season can help improve strength and performance on the court. It can also help reduce the number and impact of injuries. Additionally, lifting weights can help players maintain an adequate level of strength gained during the off-season.











































