Pre-season training was traditionally about improving fitness. After a break players needed to be whipped into shape before they went back to playing competitive games.
Nowadays the idea of using pre-season solely to build fitness has been left behind.
Why?
In youth soccer players simply don't become "unfit". When the season ends they don't suddenly pile on weight or stop moving so there isn't the need to undo the effects of a summer of excess.
This is great news for players who previously found themselves doing hill runs or stair sprints. Now pre-season is (or should be!) all about familiarising yourself with the ball.
Of course, there's always an element of fitness but it's by no means the be-all and end-all.
Not sure where to start? Try our four week pre-season plan and get your players ready for their best ever season
in Pre-season, Tips and advice
If you want your players to start pre-season training like Barcelona, you should try using Spanish-style rondo games to sharpen their general touch and all-round fitness levels. MORE
in Pre-season, Warm Ups
This fun rondo game has everything your team needs for a good pre-season workout. It offers plenty of movement for your players and sharpens their control and technique too. MORE
in Goalkeeping, Pre-season, Tips and advice
Newcastle United head goalkeeping coach Simon Smith offers advice on how to re-establish your goalkeeper’s sharpness during pre-season training MORE
in Pre-season, Team Management
This was the question I asked a group of coaches of various ages. You may be interested to know that 75% of them told me they always did the first couple of weeks' training without the ball. MORE
in Fitness and Diet, Pre-season, Tips and advice
Pre-season training may be important, but there is no reason why it can’t be enjoyable too. In fact, using games can play a vital part in both sharpening and bonding your squad. MORE
in Pre-season, Team Management
The first week back at training often means pain in terms of getting back to fitness. Depending on how your players have spent the summer it can be hard work for them. Muscles seize up, legs tire out and the next day players feel stiff and sore. Getting in shape for the big kick-off means... MORE
