Let’s face it! When it comes to warming up and stretching in Soccer practice , both coaches and players tend to ignore both. It must be understood that a practice must support the development of players as a whole. Practicing standard drills alone in soccer training will not serve the full purpose.
It is strength, agility, and resistance which ensure that a player will survive in the game. Therefore each practice session should begin with warm up rounds and stretching. It should then be followed by technique teaching, games and drills. Towards the end, the kids can be made to learn some game tactics.
Warming up and stretching achieve two broad objectives. It allows the body to get ready for a taxing exercise regime and stretching results in resting of the muscles. There are some drills that account for amazing stretching and warm up exercises.
1. Running in Formation: This warm up activity requires all team members to run, two alongside each other, staying in harmony. Since it’s a team activity, it not only adds on to the team spirit in players but also builds player’s endurance. Moreover, moving forward in a pre defined arrangement of players; you indicate to the opponents that they are going to have a hard time dealing with you.
2. Follow the leader: The players in this warm up soccer drills activity get to learn the skill of following orders along with dribbling with their heads held high. Every player needs to have a ball in this activity. Ask the assistant coach or an advanced player to lead the team. This lead player must make several different moves and everyone must imitate the lead player.
3. Reaching out: In soccer practice, this is a popular and very effective stretching exercise. Direct the players to stretch their legs apart towards left, right, and center. Then, ask them to try touching their toes on all sides. At first, they may find it hard but will eventually be able to do it.
4. Lift legs up behind: This exercise helps the kids work their thighs. While standing, the kids must fold one of their thighs and hold it for a specific time. Then they must do the same with the left leg. The players must not look below at the ground else they will loose their balance.
Every practice must have an objective. As a coach, try to focus on 1 or 2 skills per week. Design drills and games in a manner that help in developing or improving the player’s abilities as also warm up their bodies and then stretch them after the session.
Being fit is vital. Understand that the team that is not fit and gets tired loses. Make use of a soccer ball for every drill that you make the kids do. Do not let the kids run around the field without a ball, ask them to dribble with it.
Make a move and use these tips for soccer practice. If you are looking for more knowledge, tips, and tricks, subscribe to our youth soccer coaching community today.
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