Weight Training Soccer: Winning Tactics For Coaches
How about if you get to learn that weight training soccer targets improving strength instead of just increasing muscle mass, particularly the development of muscle groups that support the joints? It calls for special fitness training sessions off the field and off the ball with a view to segregate and concentrate on certain muscle groups.
Concentrating on these areas will facilitate greater mobility and flexibility leading to an increase in speed and power.
Core: The abdominals, titled as the ‘core’ is the area first area to concentrate upon. The area of the body ranging from under the breast bone up till the end of the pelvic region is called the “core”. This part of the body is responsible for power generation, maintain the center of gravity and balancing the body.
In other words, the core is where all physical actions of the body are initiated from. A strong and a well developed abdominal core also ensures a well-balanced back, especially the Lumbar region. This also generates a good posture.
Legs: The quadriceps are leg muscles which are essential in increasing blood flow to the heart. Thus being the biggest muscle groups of the body pump great volumes of blood. So, even walking is good exercise in weight training soccer as each leg helps the heart push a lot of blood through the entire body.
The hips, knees and the ankles need balanced and strong leg muscles in order to endure all the force and energy produced in hitting the ground.
Back, Chest and Neck: These areas of the body serve as a link between the “core” and the ends (legs, arms and the head). These areas must never be neglected in soccer strength training because their growth is linked with the rest of the body.
Arms: Arm is a useful part in playing soccer as they help in maintaining balance like when you jump to head a ball or when you suddenly alter directions. A good tip for power jump is to throw your arms in the air while you jump.
Plyometric: You should combine weight training with well-organized plyometric program for great results. With this method you will see progress within the first half of the season.
Special attention must be given to the core as only a well-developed soccer fitness program to improve the core will definitely target these zones.
Program: Usually a program that is calculable and particular to an individual’s requirement should be applied at the start of the season. The complete development of the player involves targeting specific areas of the body starting with the core and then toward each section of the body.
In conclusion, this concept of weight training soccer can be better understood through mental training of the team where both the team and individual players encourage each other to own the program. You are welcomed to our youth soccer coaching community and find an answer to all questions as the site offers loads of information in form of articles, videos, and newsletters.
Andre Botelho is the author of “The Expert Youth Soccer Coaching Guide” and he’s a recognized expert in the subject of youth soccer coaching. Learn how to explode your players’ skills and make coaching sessions fun in less than 29 days! Download your free pdf guide at: Kids Soccer Drills.
