Coach ,

Coach Chris Parno of Minnesota State University - Mankato compiled a comprehensive hurdle drills presentation. I watched over 40 videos and learned the intricacies of each drill and its purpose. 

In his overview of hurdle drills he uses for coordination, he broke down a three-step process he uses to teach the cut step. 

The cut step is a product of speed and it is the last shortened step before the athlete takes off into the hurdle. It can be difficult to effectively transfer this skill in a drill situation. In this first example you’ll see the cut step set down underneath the hips allows the athlete to project their hips towards the hurdle. 

Link: Wall Drill 

In the next clip Coach Parno uses a unique facility design to aid in the teaching of the cut step with the wall attack drill. The timing and sequence of this drill is crucial to hurdlers of all ages. 

1. Cut Step Back
2. Project Hips Fully
3. Drive Knee Forward 
4. Cast Lower Leg Out 

Link: Wall Attack Drill 

The final clip requires the highest amount of coordination and may take time to develop with a younger athlete. The repeated cut step drill combines a dribble calf sequence with a cut step into a knee drive that simulates a takeoff position. The repeated contact is advanced but could be used to help the athlete develop the coordination necessary to master the drill. 

Link: Repeated Cut Step Drill 

If you liked this progression for one aspect of hurdle technique you’ll love the time and detail put into the entire series of videos within this talk. Over 40 videos and years of expertise and experience to help us all this outdoor season!

Thank you for sharing Coach Parno!

Always be growing,

The T&F Community of Coaches helping Coaches