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There’s Newtons Second Law (a=F/m) again. Give us a break! Not yet.Remember, simply interpreted you can improve acceleration by increasing force capability or decreasing body mass. Previously we focussed on the mass component and getting the skin folds right by decreasing non-contractile fat mass.

Let’s quickly look at this force component. How fast you are depends on a lot of technique factors and how much force you can apply in very short time periods (impulse).These forces are comprised of vertical and horizontal ground reaction forces mostly. If you are interested in improving first step quickness and acceleration of your players, then improving horizontal force production takes on more importance. In fact, researchers have shown that acceleration improves with not only increasing horizontal force capability, but also orienting these forces for better acceleration i.e. force vector specificity.

Many strength programs I see are vertical dominant, with little consideration given to improving horizontal force production and orientation in athletes and players.How does yours look?

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