AARON SMITH

Muscle Memory is the concept of learning how to do something in a training scenario so it becomes easier and easier to do it without thinking. Peter teaches you ways to train your body to complete the perfect pass with drills from players and coaches like Aaron Smith, Matt Toomua & Stephen Larkham.

In Part 1, Practice your ball drop on one knee, while having the ball set up is on a slight lean backwards. The goal here is to create the same ball drop each time.

In Part 2, we’re working on a one leg set with the body square to the sideline while we kick up through the ball. Your momentum should carry you to the toes of the plant foot. 

In Part 3, we’re working from a standing position. Begin by taking one step on the 45 degree angle away from the ruck. This movement  will create extra momentum behind your kick.

In Part 4 of the episode we are looking at getting into a low balanced position low to the ground, squatting rather than hip hinging. Your footwork will go backwards on a 45 degree angle. Trust your technique and timing versus muscling the kick.

In Part 5 of the episode we are look at getting balanced after pulling the ball from the maul. Still use the same balanced footwork on the 45 degree angle from the maul.

Kick up and stay in the kick and follow through before your eyes go searching for the ball.

“I work on my box kick every week and the focus is always changing. Ball drop, foot placement, ball flight, hand positioning or styles of box kicking. It is something you have to stay on top of similar to goal kicking. The more you do the more you can trust your technique.” Aaron Smith