bigdavecox90
24 Apr 2008, 04:52 PM
I am looking to get fitter for next season, I need to start eating right, and working out/going for runs more....
Any ideas?
ShuGuru314
25 Apr 2008, 06:21 PM
im in the same boat...
before you get going its good to have a goal...something to look forward and work towards...
set an ultimate goal for where you want to be just before next season...
also, use short term goals in order to help you reach your long term achievement
its probably not wise to change everything too radically at once...ease into fitness and dietary changes
start by assessing your personal fitness on the first day or before you begin your regimen...then set some realistic short term goals...perhaps a weekly increase in your mile time, add 5 more sprints,increase reps etc.
im a firm believer in the power of nutrition. changing your eating can benefit your efforts greatly. if you dont already know the basics of food or are not familiar with what your body will need during training you should read up a little bit...this is a great link for footballers http://en.fifa.com/aboutfifa/developing/medical/newsid=513876.html
again, dont drastically change everything about your diet but slowly cut out certain things and add certain perhaps start with not adding salt to food, and eat a fruit or veggie everyday, then cut out fast food, then make another change...
4 main points will make for great training
cardio/speed training its argued what type of running is best for soccer players long distance opposed shorter sprints... i think its important to get a little of both in your routine a couple times a week
weight training/stretching you dont want to be too bulky, but having some tone and definition in arms, legs, and especially your core will be important...another thing that many players neglect is stretching! if you are working with weights u need to stretch the worked muscles to remain flexible and maximize range of motion.... but all footballers should invest some serious time into stretching...definitely helps reduce risk of injury, reduces muscle fatigue and obviously, keeps you flexible which has many benefits for footballers
nutrition getting the proper nutrition will help reduce injury, increase recovery time, and most importantly make you feel better
practice, practice,practice
i cant stress this enough...your skills can never be too good...juggling and dribbling excercises will improve touch and confidence on the ball..but theres nothing like playing in a game...its also good to have some scrimmage time or game play under your belt before the season...short sided games or futsal matches will help improve touch and ability to maneuver in close areas