Ball-handling drill

Weak-hand dribbling drills

If defenders know you only go one way, they will force you the other. Weak-hand drills even out your handle so you can attack either side.

Level: All levelsFocus: Weak Hand, ControlSpace: 4 x 4 ft

What is the weak-hand dribbling?

Weak-hand dribbling means focused practice with your non-dominant hand. For right-handed players that is the left hand, and the other way around.

Your weak hand is not weak because it is less capable. It just has fewer reps. Extra, deliberate reps close the gap faster than most players expect.

When to use it in a game

In games, a usable weak hand lets you drive both directions, protect the ball on either side, and finish with either hand. In training, give it more reps than your strong hand until they feel similar.

For a full plan, see how to improve your weak hand.

How to do it, step by step

Start with pound dribbles in your weak hand for 30 seconds, knee height.
Move to ankle-height and waist-height pounds.
Do in-and-outs with the weak hand only.
Add weak-hand crossovers: cross from weak to strong and back.
Walk or jog with weak-hand speed dribbles.
Finish with weak-hand layups if you have a hoop.

Common mistakes

Switching back too soon. When it gets uncomfortable, stay with it. That is where improvement happens.
Only stationary work. Your weak hand also needs moving reps.
Looking at the ball. This is the most common weak-hand habit. Keep your eyes up.

Three progressions

Weak-hand only. All drills with your weak hand for a full session once or twice a week.
Two to one. Two reps weak hand for every one strong-hand rep.
Game moves. Do crossovers, hesitations and in-and-outs starting from the weak hand.

5-minute weak-hand dribbling workout

0:00–1:00Weak-hand pound, knee height.

1:00–2:00Weak-hand pound, ankle and waist height.

2:00–3:00Weak-hand in-and-out.

3:00–4:00Crossovers starting from the weak hand.

4:00–5:00Weak-hand speed dribble, down and back.

How Handles AI coaches it

Handles AI has a Weak Hand Development mode, and Coach Ace calls weak-hand pounds alongside other moves. Each rep is graded by the front camera so you can see whether your off hand is actually improving.

Weak Hand is one of the six ratings that make up your Ball Handler Score, so you get a number to track.

Prop up your iPhone and let Coach Ace call the reps. Your first 20-second session is free.

Download on theApp Store

FAQ

How long does it take to improve my weak hand?

It depends on how often you practice, but a few focused minutes every day tends to show results within weeks.

Should I write or eat with my weak hand?

Some players do it for coordination. It is optional; ball reps are what count most.

Is two-ball dribbling good for the weak hand?

Yes. See two-ball dribbling.

Keep training

GuideHow to improve your weak hand in basketballA step-by-step plan to improve your weak hand in basketball: dribbling drills, weak-hand-only days, layups, and how to measure progress.DrillPound DribbleThe pound dribble builds hand strength and control. Learn proper form, mistakes to avoid, three progressions and a 5-minute pound workout.DrillTwo-Ball DribblingTwo-ball dribbling drills build both hands at once. Learn the setup, form, common mistakes, three progressions and a 5-minute workout.DrillCrossoverLearn a low, quick crossover: step-by-step technique, common mistakes, three progressions and a 5-minute crossover workout.