Complete QB

We have often made reference to the importance of total body strength as having a positive relationship to performance as a Quarterback/passer. Relatively new research seems to support the usefulness of trunk strength and motor control for Quarterbacks.

Researchers from the University of Southern California and Auburn University have identified a correlation between trunk movement in performance of both the single-leg squat (SLS) and baseball pitching. The study (linked below) demonstrated a tendency of those baseball pitchers who show excessive lateral trunk lean during the SLS to also lean during pitching. Closely related to this is an increase in shoulder and elbow forces (and accompanying risk of injury) for those presenting this extra trunk lean.

While baseball pitching is not the same as passing for a Quarterback, there is enough shared trunk involvement in both activities to heed the findings in this study. Trunk lean in the direction opposite the throwing arm essentially requires an increased load of the passing movement to be absorbed by the significant joints of the arm (shoulder and elbow). With our understanding of the need for full-body passing to achieve both efficiency and health, these findings reinforce our understanding of the role of strength and control as passers.

The SLS as a movement is a simple one and can be done in tight spaces and (optionally) without resistance or equipment. Our primary coaching points are to:

1. Maintain a neutral back (no significant flexion or forward movement).
2. Keep the stationary leg’s knee in alignment with the foot throughout.
3. (The obvious one, given the topic of this blog post and study!) Do not lean laterally with the trunk opposite the hand that is reaching for the foot!

As this drill becomes easy with body weight alone, a single dumbbell can be added to increase resistance.

The study referenced, from the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5808014/

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