How to Get in Shape Like an NBA Star

It takes a certain kind of strength to barrel up and down a court, light on your feet and aggressive in your ball handling, for four quarters until the clock hits zero. To stay in explosive playing shape, NBA players focus on a head-to-toe fitness regimen—muscular strength, cardiovascular strength, and using a full range of motion—when they’re training off the court, according to Gunnar Peterson, a professional trainer and strength coach for the L.A. Lakers. With that in mind, he walked us through a circuit like those he does with his clients that you can tackle at your own gym. You won’t ever play like an NBA star, but you can at least work out like one.

The NBA Workout

Split stance sprinters

8-10 reps; 2-3 sets

(Shop ergonomic dumbbells here.)

Jump to pull-up

6-8 reps; 2-3 sets

Rotational club chops

8-10 reps; 2-3 sets

(Shop rotational/Indian clubs here.)

Side step to pull-downs

8-10 reps; 2-3 sets

Rollouts

8-10 reps; 2-3 sets

(Shop ab roller here.)

Cable resisted sprints

8-10 reps of; 2-3 sets

(Shop resistance bands here.)

Cable resisted squats

8-10 reps; 2-3 sets

Ball handle lunges

8-10 reps; 2-3 sets

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Lifestyle – Esquire