Have you ever associated football with strength training? Well not many people do.
It’s a game where players can run up to eight miles in one game. Therefore, everyone tends to think of endurance training. This where they’re going wrong…
It’s one thing being quick, but many people underestimate the benefits of having a physical advantage over the opponent.
Why do footballers need strength training?
Most people assume being strong means having to build size and definition, but, contrary to popular belief, larger muscles are NOT always stronger or more powerful. Footballers do not need to bulk and increase size, but they do need strength and power! Full body workouts are definitely something that footballers need to do as they are constantly in motion, whether it’s at a steady jog or at top sprinting speed, they never get a rest in the game.
How often do you need to do weight training?
There are different phases of football where the weight training will vary, these are:
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The off-season
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The on-season
Both of these different phases require different training routines.
But why:
In the off-season, you should build most of your strength, size and power as you will have the most free time.
The on-season is where you try and maintain the strength and size that you gained in the off season. You will need to reduce the intensity and volume of your workouts considerably.
What are the most popular forms of weight training and why?
Squat training is probably the most popular form of weight training for football players as it helps develop explosive power which will increase the speed of your sprinting and acceleration. This work out has also proved to increase knee stability, so it has extra benefits!
What are the benefits of strength/weight training?
Weight training has not only proved to benefit players physically, but it also helps with avoiding injuries. It helps to strengthen your muscles and help prevent them from getting damaged. All in all, if you have a good football player and help him or her develop physically, the returns on being a more complete athlete and player are inevitable.
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