No soccer player likes pre-season training and youth players are no different. However, the work you do in the pre-season can be the difference to a successful year and a one that fades into obscurity.
A lot of soccer coaches make the mistake of focusing too much on the physical side of the game and less of the technical during pre-season. One thing I have learned is, if the kids are wired, they won’t focus properly during a training session. Before my team focuses on the technical aspects of soccer, I like to get their bodies moving with short, intensive physical movements – that’s where the training ladders come in.
I find it’s best to start out with movements the players are more likely to be successful with, like forward fast feet. I then progress onto more difficult foot movement and coordination that includes side-to-side, twisting and turning, and jumping.
Another technique I like to use with my team when using the training ladders is that I replicate the movements the players will do when playing soccer. So jumping replicates jumping up for a header, moving side to side replicates getting ready to receive the ball. After they’ve done it a while I ask them questions about different exercises they’ve done and how they would use that movement in a game.
I’m a big believer of using the training ladders for youth soccer players. I saw that it made a difference in the Spring season and I’m confident it will do the same for the Fall. If you haven’t tried the ladders with your soccer team’s players, I highly recommend buying some – you’ll soon see the benefit.
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