The warm-up phase of a quarterback’s workout has two objectives: to lather up the lower body and to loosen up passing mechanics.

When QBs take the field, the goal is to avoid meaningless drills. Every phase within a workout must be skill-specific, and each exercise within this warm-up phase should match the skill set of the quarterback doing it.

As QBs progress through the six different exercises (see video below), finish with an accurate pass to a stationary target six to eight yards from the passing spot. When positioning for the throw, the keys are to flip the hips, extend the elbow and deliver the ball to the receiver’s jaw line, creating an accurate pass.

COMING SOON: This is the first article in a series of offseason QB workouts from Terry Shea. Check back later this month for more.

SEE ALSO: Read more about quarterback play with Terry Shea

During this phase QBs will repeat each exercise, producing 12 repetitions and 12 passing reps. This process affords needed warm-up throws incorporated with the lower-body work. Using a stripe on the field places the quarterback into the proper environment for assuring proper balance, body control and vertical movement up the line, which is identical to movement within the pocket.

Properly selecting drills for any warm-up phase is designed to develop mechanics. With an investment of hard work and repetition, a QB’s body will establish muscle memory for each defined movement and demonstrate an ability to function with more consistency. This routine leads to motor learning, which involves consolidating a specific motor skill into memory through repetition.

Mastering specific QB movements prepares young signal callers for a more productive workout. Establish a routine at the beginning of each workout and compliment this routine with proper repetition.

Remember, a quarterback practices for two reasons:

To improve his skills and techniques

To prepare for the next opportunity to compete.

Terry Shea is a longtime football coach at the NFL and college levels, serving as the Rutgers head coach and Chicago Bears offensive coordinator among his stops. He currently is the head coach of the Boston Brawlers of the Fall Experimental Football League and has helped train many NFL quarterbacks, including Robert Griffin III, Matthew Stafford, Sam Bradford, Josh Freeman, Aaron Murray, Blaine Gabbert and Trent Green. Click here to view his book, “Eyes Up,”which instructs and energizes quarterbacks and their coaches to improve on the field.