Change of direction angle and approach velocity are critical factors that impact the directional change technical execution, deceleration and reacceleration requirements, knee joint loading, and lower limb muscle activity. Thus, these two factors regulate the progression and regression in change of direction intensity.

An ‘angle-velocity trade-off’ exists during change of direction, whereby faster approaches compromise the execution of the intended directional change.

Change of direction biomechanical demands are ‘angle’ and ‘velocity’ dependent; therefore, practitioners and researchers should understand the implications of these two factors when coaching and screening change of direction technique, creating and implementing strength and conditioning programs, and interpreting change of direction research.