The different types of training for soccer players

Soccer is the number one sport in the world. With Soccer the most played sport at U.S. youth level, it is only a matter of time before the professional league grows. Now, there is more interest in how soccer players should train. Let’s looks at the different roles and what training each need:

Goalies

At certain levels of soccer, the goalies train with the rest of the team. This is a mistake. At most, a goalie will need to cover the 10 yards of the 18-yard box from the goal line. Training for anything more than that is a waste of time and energy. This is why at the top level in Europe, the goalie trains on his own with sports specific drills.

Full backs

The traditional training for a fullback has been to push the endurance pathway. Instead, a defender needs quick bursts of speed and to be physical with other players while being agile. Endurance training will not help that. Training should focus on the ATP energy pathway with about 10% glycolytic.

Forwards

Forwards need to sustain short sprints and long durations of jogging. The training for a forward should cover SAQ: Speed, Agility, and Quickness. Another important aspect is to avoid training them in one direction. Forwards need the ability to make quick changes of direction and apply power and speed in the new direction immediately. About 20% of a forwards energy demands will be endurance.