The Elastic Advantage

Movement & Longevity

“Elasticity keeps you quick, balanced, and resilient—no matter your age.”

Want to Stay Quick, Balanced, and Injury-Free? Start Here.

One of the biggest reasons we incorporate lower leg drills—like foot and calf movements—into training is to improve something called elasticity.

But it doesn’t stop there.

Believe it or not, these same movements also enhance hip function.

Sound like a stretch? Let’s break it down.

Your Body Is a Chain—Not Separate Parts

Your foot connects to your leg.
Your leg connects to your hip.
And your hip drives the movement of both.

That’s why drills like jump rope, ladder work, and low box footwork aren’t just about faster feet—they train your hips to react quickly, efficiently, and under control.

We call this positional quickness—your body’s ability to move fast, stay balanced, and transition smoothly in and out of positions.

Why Elasticity Matters

Here’s why this kind of training is valuable for everyone:

🏸 Active adults (tennis, basketball, skiing, etc.): You’ll move athletically—and more safely—so you can keep doing what you love.

💪 Aging adults: Footwork drills improve balance, coordination, and reaction time—helping prevent falls and maintain agility.

⚡ Everyday movers: Elasticity helps your muscles absorb and recreate force efficiently. This natural ability starts to decline in your mid-20s, so keeping it sharp pays off long-term.

Elasticity isn’t just for athletes—it’s a life skill for movement longevity.

How to Train It

Try this simple but powerful movement:

In-Out Low Box Straddle Drill

How to Use It:

• Add it to your warm-up to prep your lower body.

• Use it as a finisher to sharpen coordination.

• Or throw it in as a quick standalone session when time is tight.

It’s simple, effective, and one of the best ways to keep your body feeling sharp and athletic.

Final Thought

Elasticity is the hidden key to staying quick, balanced, and injury-free.

Train your lower legs and hips to work together—and you’ll move better, react faster, and stay stronger for years to come.

— Coach Shelby and The Shelby Trained Team