Backpedal

The backpedal distance is about five to ten yards before the athlete transitions. The backpedal phase covers a distance of 5–10 feet or meters. The backpedal should use short, choppy steps instead of long strides. Short chopping steps help keep the athlete centered and ready to redirect quickly. Athletes should maintain a low athletic stance during the backpedal. The backpedal starts from an athletic stance. Large backward steps are discouraged because they overcommit the body and reduce reaction ability. Long strides during the backpedal slow the change of direction by committing momentum rearward.