/ Why this drill
What it teaches.
Conditioning that mimics the game. In a real game, kids sprint, backpedal, and recover constantly — not jog laps. Sideline-to-Sideline builds the exact stamina they need without the boredom of straight-line running.
/ How to run it
Step by step.
- Player starts at the middle of the field.
- Sprint to the left sideline.
- Backpedal to the middle.
- Sprint to the right sideline.
- Backpedal to the middle.
- Repeat for 1 minute. Count touches (each sideline touch = 1).
/ Coaching points
What to watch for.
- Touch the sideline every time. No cheating.
- Backpedal at full speed — not a jog.
- Stay low during the backpedal. Eyes downfield.
- Track the count — kids will compete with their own number.
/ Variations
Progress the drill.
Add a turn
Plant and turn at each sideline before sprinting back. Tests change of direction.
Increase time
Run for 90 seconds instead of 60. Tests endurance.
Partner
Two players go in opposite directions. Adds competition.
/ Common mistakes
Where it goes wrong.
- Slowing down at the sidelines — wastes the recovery.
- Jogging the backpedal — defeats the conditioning.
- Not counting — without numbers, no improvement.
- Stopping when tired — push through, that's the point.