Lateral Movement in Basketball
Unlock Better Lateral Movement in Basketball: Mobility Drills Every Athlete Should Use
Basketball demands more than vertical jump and straight-line speed. The plays that change a game often happen side-to-side—cutting off a drive, sliding into help defense, or creating space off the dribble. That’s why lateral movement is one of the most important—and most overlooked—components of basketball performance.
In the video above, our Rehab 2 Perform team breaks down key mobility drills designed to help you move more efficiently, react quicker, and stay healthier on the court. These drills target the hips, ankles, and thoracic spine—three areas that directly influence your ability to generate force, change direction, and maintain strong defensive positioning.
Why Lateral Mobility Matters
Quality lateral movement isn’t just about speed. It’s about control. When an athlete lacks mobility through the hips or ankles, they compensate with poor body positions that slow them down and increase the likelihood of knee, groin, and low-back injuries. Physical therapy principles show that improving joint mobility and neuromuscular control can dramatically enhance court performance while reducing injury risk.
Mobility Drills to Elevate Your Game
The drills demonstrated in the video focus on:
- Hip mobility to improve defensive slides and explosive first steps
- Ankle dorsiflexion for stronger plant-and-push mechanics
- Thoracic rotation to support better balance and body positioning
These foundational movements are simple to incorporate into warm-ups, off-day training, or a structured basketball strength program.
Build Better Movement. Play Better Basketball.
Whether you’re preparing for a long season or trying to stay healthy during heavy training, consistent mobility work is a difference-maker. At Rehab 2 Perform, our physical therapists specialize in helping basketball athletes restore mobility, refine movement patterns, and return to the court stronger than before.
If you want a personalized movement assessment or guidance on a basketball-specific program, reach out—we’re here to support your performance.
About Rehab 2 Perform
Rehab 2 Perform is a leading physical therapy and sports rehabilitation company dedicated to helping clients achieve optimal performance in their daily lives, whether they are athletes, weekend warriors, or individuals recovering from injury. With a team of highly skilled professionals, Rehab 2 Perform offers a personalized, evidence-based approach that emphasizes active rehabilitation and functional fitness. Find a Location near you.