Y-Balance Reach

Quick Information

Category
Balance & Stability
Difficulty
Intermediate
Equipment
Cones
Primary muscle group
Gluteus Medius, Quadriceps
Secondary muscle groups
Gluteus Maximus, Calves, Trunk
Movement pattern
Single-Leg Multidirectional Reach
Training goal
Balance
Sport
General Athletic Development, Football, Soccer, Rugby, Basketball, Volleyball, Tennis, Hockey

Overview

Purpose. Train and assess dynamic single-leg balance and hip control.

How it fits the system. An intermediate-level single-leg multidirectional reach entry in the Balance & Stability section, programmed to develop balance. Related work in the library: Single-Leg Anterior Reach and Tandem Stance Walk.

Primary muscles

Gluteus Medius, Quadriceps

Secondary muscles

Gluteus Maximus, Calves, Trunk

Movement pattern

Single-Leg Multidirectional Reach

Equipment

Cones

Difficulty

Intermediate

How to Perform

  1. Stand on one leg with the hands on the hips.
  2. Set three markers forward, back and to the side at an angle.
  3. Reach the free foot as far as possible towards the front marker without touching down heavily.
  4. Return to the centre under control.
  5. Repeat towards the posterolateral and posteromedial markers.
  6. Complete the set, then change legs and compare.

Coaching Cues

  • Keep the standing heel on the floor.
  • Touch lightly, do not transfer weight.
  • Return to the middle under full control.

Common Mistakes

  • Putting weight onto the reaching foot.
  • Letting the standing knee collapse inwards.
  • Reaching further than you can control.

Progressions & Regressions

Progressions
Increase reach distance or add a light load.
Regressions
Reduce reach distance and use a support.

When to Use It

When to use
As a balance test and training drill.
When not to use
With knee or ankle pain during the reach.
Programming
3 sets of 3 reaches in each direction per leg.

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