Reaction Gates Warm-Up — Scan and Accelerate

A reaction-based warm-up using multiple gates. Players move dynamically in the centre, scan for the coach's cue and accelerate through the correct gate before returning to the group.

Activate scanning and acceleration by reacting to a late gate cue and sprinting into the correct space.
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SCAN & SPRINT
Players
4
Duration
9 min
Equipment
Cones
Difficulty
Beginner
Age group
U9–U18
Type
Speed & Reaction

Organization

Create a 12x12m square with four numbered or named gates around the outside. Players perform low-intensity movement centrally. Coach calls or signals a gate for a short acceleration.

Coaching Points

Keep the head up between movements | React to the cue rather than guessing | First step should be explosive | Decelerate under control after the gate | Maintain movement quality between sprints

Progressions

  • Use visual cues only or allow two competing players to race to the same gate.

Regressions

  • Reduce the number of gates and use clear verbal cues.

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