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Coaching Corner Jan/Feb

By Rens van Oostende, 02/16/24, 4:30PM EST

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SOCCER RELATED STRENGTH TRAINING

Strength training has to follow a functional approach directed to the application of forces

Under sport-specific movements and never focused on developing strength on muscles by themselves. The chosen exercises must have a connection with the physical demands of the game, in this case soccer.

The correct biomechanical execution must be secured during the exercise with a neutral lumbar - spine position and force vectors directed in the adequate directions, including not only linear movements but also rotational strength manifestations, as the same way they occur during playing soccer. High speed and short duration exercises, as classical low impact plyometrics, could also be included in the program as neuromuscular pre-activations. Proper executed strength training does not just make the player stronger and faster but also better protected against potential injuries.