Expert: Thom Brooks - 6/7/2008

Question
Hi, I didn't get the chance to play my senior year of football due to some family issues, but this fall I will be attending Indiana State University. I plan to walk on as a running back. I've been in contact with the recruiting coordinator and I've sent him a copy of my highlight dvd. He hasn't emailed me or called me back yet, but if he does and invites me to camp, I want to be in good shape. I will be running this hill/mountain at a local park. Hopefully this will help strengthen my legs and make me faster and get me into better shape. Do you have any suggestions for me training as a running back? And getting my speed up? My stats: 5'7" 183lbs, 40 time:4.6-4.8, bench max: 215, squat max: N/A. Thank you

Answer
Terrel, hello!

Keep on a weight lifting schedule and do as many sprints as you can.  You made me think of Georgia's Hershel Walker.  When he was coming up through high school he could not afford the weight machines of today so he did many pushups each day, but also took a tractor tire, tied a mule's harness around his back and drug that tire around the yard.  That's why people couldn't tackle the man.  He built his stamina and lower body strength to be able to push through a would be tackler.  His strength and 40 times were better than yours, so get busy if you plan on elevating your game.  

Take care!

Thom Brooks