Biomechanical Comparison of Cutting Techniques: A Review and Practical Applications

Cutting Actions Are Important Maneuvers in Multidirectional Sport and Are Also Key Actions Associated With Noncontact Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury; However, It Is Important to Note That 3 Primary Cutting Techniques Have Been Studied Within the Literature: The Side-Step, Crossover Cut, and Split-Step. These Cutting Techniques Demonstrate Kinetic and Kinematic Differences, Which Have Distinct Implications for Both Performance and Potential Injury Risk. In This Review, We Discuss the Advantages and Disadvantages of the 3 Cutting Techniques and Provide Cutting Technical Guidelines, Verbal Coaching Cues, and Change-of-Direction Speed and Agility Programming Recommendations to Enhance Performance and Promote Safer Mechanics.