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? This requires special fitness training program without the ball and off the field in order to give time to focus on particular muscle groups.
Focusing on these target areas will generate superior movement and flexibility causing higher velocity and strength.
Core: Technically the first area to focus on is the abdominals, commonly known as the core. The area of the body ranging from under the breast bone up till the end of the pelvic region is called the “core”. This portion of the body is the origin point of power, gravity and balance in the body.
So, the core is the place from where all the physical activities start from. Great abdominal cores also results in a well-balanced back, most essentially the Lumbar area. As a result a better posture is developed.
Legs: The quadriceps are helpful in pumping the heart. Hence they are the major muscle groups of the body and provide enormous amount of blood volume. So, in weight training soccer walking can be useful as it helps to increase blood circulation inside the body with each step.
Powerful and stable leg muscles are vital for the hips, knees and the ankles to hips, to bear all the power and energy produced in hitting the ground.
Back, Chest and Neck: These parts of the body work as a connection 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: Arms facilitate in the balancing of the body through weight distribution, especially when jumping to head a ball or changing directions. Throwing your arms in the air adds force to a jump.
Plyometric: You should combine weight training with well-organized plyometric program for great results. Using this technique such players will be produced who will show good results in the first half of the season.
Always remember to give importance to the core as only a well-developed soccer fitness program to develop the core will positively aim these areas.
Program: Typically a program which is measureable and precise to an individual’s requirement should be functional at the opening of the season. The comprehensive development of the player comprises of directing attention to specific areas of the body initiating with the core till 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 can subscribe 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.
Tags: fitness training, soccer fitness, soccer strength training, Weight training soccer