Game-Day Ready: How Combine Training Translates Directly to Sport Performance

Laura Baden
May 27
2 min read

At first glance, combine testing might look like it’s all about numbers—40-yard dash times, vertical jump heights, shuttle runs. But what if we told you these drills aren't just for measuring performance—they actually build it?

At Earn the Edge Performance, our Combine is more than an assessment. It’s a powerful tool to help athletes train for real-game situations, no matter what sport they play.

Every Drill Has a Purpose

The biggest misconception about performance combines? That they only matter for football players. The truth is, every drill we use at the Combine directly enhances the athletic qualities needed in baseball, soccer, basketball, volleyball, lacrosse, softball—you name it.

Let’s break it down:

🏃‍♀️ 40-Yard Dash = Explosive Acceleration

Think sprinting out of the batter’s box, breaking away on a fast break, or chasing down a foul ball.
Teaches how to accelerate quickly and efficiently without wasted movement.

🦘 Vertical & Broad Jump = Power & Lower Body Explosion

Essential for vertical-based sports like volleyball and basketball, but also for developing ground force in sprinting, hitting, or throwing.
Trains athletes to generate power from the hips and core, improving strength transfer in nearly every movement.

🔄 Pro-Agility Shuttle (5-10-5) = Change of Direction

Mirrors in-game reactions: fielding ground balls, defending a dribble, cutting across the field.
Teaches foot positioning, body control, and how to decelerate and reaccelerate with
purpose.
🧠 Cognitive Focus Under Pressure = Mental Edge
Testing environments add a competitive edge, pushing athletes to manage nerves and perform when it counts—just like in a game.

Why Combine Training Is Smart Training

Most athletes train for their sport. Fewer train for the movement behind their sport.

Combine Prep Day teaches athletes:

How to move efficiently
How to absorb and apply coaching
How to compete with themselves and others in a healthy, driven way

This isn’t random testing—it’s the foundation of athletic success.

The Bonus Edge? Nutrition + Recovery

Game-day performance doesn’t start with a whistle—it starts with what goes in your body.

That’s why our Combine includes:

🥗 A Nutrition Education Station led by Sports Nutritionist Laura Cordero to teach athletes how to fuel for energy, focus, and recovery
🥤 Press’d or Blend’d on-site for fresh, high-quality pre and post-event nutrition to support refueling and hydration, because great training means nothing without great recovery.

This Is How You Build a Total Athlete

Whether your athlete is a shortstop, point guard, outside hitter, or midfielder—they benefit from better mechanics, better fueling, and better feedback.

📈 Combine training isn’t just a test. It’s a tool to elevate sport performance, build confidence, and lay the groundwork for long-term athletic success.