Running Back Tips: The 3-Point Stance Form

Taking this stance is the fundamental step before exploding into an offensive play.

The running back’s 3-point stance is very similar to the 2-point stance. You start with two points of contact to the ground: your left foot and your right foot. Then, you simply add a hand to the ground and now it’s become the 3-point stance.

Point your toes toward the line of scrimmage. Your feet should be slightly wider than shoulder width apart. Your knees are flexed slightly and aligned below or inside your hips. Squat down lower and reach out with your hand toward the ground, comfortably out in front of your body. Your head should be up with a flat back. If your stance is correct, a coach should see triple flexion in the lower half of your body: hips, knees and ankles. From this position, be ready for the snap count, so you can explode into the play.

Here are the steps again, broken down:

  1. Start in a strong, athletic position
  2. Toes pointed toward the line of scrimmage
  3. Feet slightly wider than shoulder width apart
  4. Knees are flexed, and lined up underneath or inside the hips
  5. Squat down and position your hand on the ground at a comfortable distance in front of your body
  6. Flat back
  7. Head up
  8. Eyes forward
  9. Wait for the snap count
  10. Explode

Practice these basics to master the 3-point stance and get ready to make explosive offensive plays this football season.