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Module 03

Warm-Up Protocol

The 6-step warm-up system — physical preparation, attentional priming, and community building in 8–12 minutes.📄 ICC Athletic Development Plan (PDF)

8–12 Minutes TotalAll Age Groups6 StepsEvery Session
01

Dynamic Movement

2–3 min

Not static stretching. Dynamic movement activates the neuromuscular system.

  • Arm circles (forward + backward)
  • Hip circles
  • Trunk rotations
  • Walking lunges (for ages 10+)
  • High knees (all ages)

Age Delivery

Ages 4–6Make it a game. "Can you make your arms into helicopter blades?"
Ages 7–10Follow the leader. Demonstrate and they copy.
Ages 11+Set a timer. Self-directed with coach circulating.
02

Foam Ball or Slow Swing

2 min

First swings of the day without ball flight pressure. Re-establish movement pattern without outcome stress.

  • Foam ball chips (all ages)
  • Practice swings at 50% speed
  • Mirror/shadow swing (for those with prior instruction)

Age Delivery

Ages 4–6Just swing at foam balls. No correction. Free play.
Ages 7–10One specific focus ("feel the club reach back"). One cue only.
Ages 11+Self-directed warm-up. Each student knows their baseline.
03

Target Activation

1–2 min

First shots toward a target. Short distance (wedge to 50 yards max). Establishes visual connection to target before mechanics kick in.

  • Chip to a hoop or cone
  • Short pitch to a flag
  • One-club putting warm-up
04

Mobility Check

1 min

Quick check that physical limitations aren't present today. This is injury prevention — take it seriously.

  • "Does anything feel tight?"
  • Side bend left and right
  • Shoulder check (for any soreness)
05

Game Preview

1 min

Tell them what the session's main game or challenge is. Creates motivation and forward focus — kids practice harder when they know the game is coming.

"Today we're running Lightning at the end — keep practicing your putting."

06

Intention Setting

30 sec (ages 10+)

Each student states one focus for the session. Not enforced — but planting the idea activates attention.

"Today I'm working on keeping my head still."

Age Delivery

Ages 4–6Skip entirely.
Ages 7–10Optional.
Ages 10+Recommended. 30 seconds, one focus each.