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Arm Action in a Mirror

Learn the fast, relaxed arm swing that drives good sprint running.

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

Set up

Stand tall in front of a mirror with elbows bent about 90 degrees.

Core: 10. Aim for a smooth start, not a faster time.

Ages
7 and up
Time
6 min
Players
Just you
Space
Yard or field
Bring
Mirror or window
Level · skill
Beginner · Sprint Speed

The steps

How it works

  1. Stand tall in front of a mirror with elbows bent about 90 degrees.
  2. Swing your arms from hip pocket to chin height.
  3. Keep your shoulders low and hands loose.
  4. Do 4 sets of 20 seconds, then 3 sets seated on the floor.

Coaching point

Hip to chin, loose hands.

Safety: Keep your shoulders relaxed and stop if your shoulder hurts.

Make it fun

Play it, don't drill it

Game version

Cone-call game: a partner calls a cone and you move to it with a smooth start. Swap callers and rest fully.

Challenge

Pick a distance: Less (5 yards), Core (10), More (15). Aim for a smooth start, not a faster time.

Story

You are a cheetah crossing the grassland, then resting in the shade.

My best

Beat your own count

Aim for a smooth start, not a faster time. Only your own number counts: today against last time.

Practice makes progress

Print it now, or save it free

Free for families and teams

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