Took a Backwards Tumble

[Eastshire]

Originally Posted by bainsey

I've been warned about possible Achilles damage. Something tells me this fall will be a big motivator for me than that.

Having said that, in soccer, we're expected to backtrack some, especially toward a touchline as the ball approaches us. Come to think of it, backtracking is part of our physical test (shuffle test: 25 yards straight ahead, then to the left, then backwards, then to the right).

So riddle me this: Why is backtracking expected in one sport, but verboten in another?

I suspect safety is the main reason. Backtracking provides a better viewing angle but the basketball court is simply too small to safely run where you aren't looking. In soccer, you have the space to safely get the angle you need on the play while still getting where you need to go.

[mbyron]

Originally Posted by bainsey

So riddle me this: Why is backtracking expected in one sport, but verboten in another?

You know that 'backtrack' does not mean the same as 'backpedal', right?

[bainsey]

Good eye, MB. I indeed meant "backpedal."

[26 Year Gap]

Originally Posted by mbyron

You know that 'backtrack' does not mean the same as 'backpedal', right?

Those who get chastised on this board will often 'backtrack'. Those who post about falling on their fannies 'backpedal'.

[JRutledge]

Originally Posted by bainsey

So riddle me this: Why is backtracking expected in one sport, but verboten in another?

It is pretty obvious to me. One you will fall on grass and dirt and the other you will fall on a floor that is flat and likely a lot harder. Easier to get hurt on the harder surface.

Peace

[26 Year Gap]

Originally Posted by JRutledge

It is pretty obvious to me. One you will fall on grass and dirt and the other you will fall on a floor that is flat and likely a lot harder. Easier to get hurt on the harder surface.

Peace

I've played soccer in Maine in November. That surface is pretty hard, too. Never ran backwards while playing, though.

[JRutledge]

Originally Posted by 26 Year Gap

I've played soccer in Maine in November. That surface is pretty hard, too. Never ran backwards while playing, though.

How many people have you ever known that broke their arms or wrist by falling on a grass surface (without someone falling on them).

Peace

[26 Year Gap]

Originally Posted by JRutledge

How many people have you ever known that broke their arms or wrist by falling on a grass surface (without someone falling on them).

Peace

Since those fields in November in Maine were like cement, I wasn't about to take any chances.

But, the point is that on the basketball court, nothing positive can be gained by running backwards.