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Shuffle to Crossover Run

Side-shuffle a few steps, then turn the hips and cross over into a forward run. Practices smooth changes of movement.

By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026

Set up

Start side-on at a cone in a ready stance.

Core: Steady. Aim for smooth changes.

Ages
10 to 14
Time
10 min
Players
Just you
Space
Yard or field
Bring
Cones
Level · skill
Developing · Starts & Relays

The steps

How it works

  1. Start side-on at a cone in a ready stance.
  2. Shuffle 3 steps without crossing your feet.
  3. On a clap, turn your hips and run forward 5 yards.
  4. Do 5 each way.

Coaching point

Hips turn first, feet follow.

Safety: Use a clear, non-slip space and change direction only as fast as you can control. Stop if a knee or ankle hurts.

Make it fun

Play it, don't drill it

Game version

Mirror steps: a partner leads side steps and crossover runs and you copy them. Swap leaders.

Challenge

Choose a level: Less (slow), Core (steady), More (switch direction on a clap). Aim for smooth changes.

Story

You are a crab scuttling sideways, then a deer running through the trees.

My best

Beat your own count

Aim for smooth changes. Only your own number counts: today against last time.

Practice makes progress

Print it now, or save it free

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An email from you to the coach, with the words ready. Nothing is tracked and nobody is rewarded.