Does water polo make you inflexible?

How to make your water polo shot stronger?

• I play water polo and im not bad. Ive been to the olympic training center, and JO's 2 times, started varsity... but i dont trust my shot. So how can i make my shot stronger? like what can i do? i have a hungarn weighted ball that i throw against the wall... any other ideas?

• Answer:

  I'd lift weights and focus on your core and back. The core muscles help you throw the ball stronger. The back muscles protect your shoulder and prevent injury. You will throw harder knowing that your body can handle the stress. I'd throw footballs, softballs and polo balls on dryland as well. Work on power first...then accuracy. You can throw from standing or sitting positions as well. The weighted ball will help build strength, but you need power. Power is strength and speed combined. So throwing the other balls fast and far will help develop the speed. Accuracy is important as well. Set up a target in the corners and practice hitting it. Hanging something from the cage as a visual target will help. Try hitting it from different positions and distances as well as from receiving a pass. You probably have pretty good mechanics. Remember the shot comes from your legs, your torso, your shoulder, your arm and out your wrist. It's not all from your arm. In polo the main thing is a quick release. Catch and shoot quickly in one smooth motion is much better than catch, pull back, and fire. The first one doesn't have as much power, but it tends to get goalies unaware and the second takes so long the goalie will get set. I'd take a quick shot over a power shot any day. One final point. Watch how others who are masters at throwing throw. Watch pitchers, quarterbacks and other polo players. See if there's something they do mechanically that you can copy or use. The mechanics are remarkably similar. Good luck!