Soccer Warm Ups

Before you get your players started on the field it is critical that they go through a good warm up. Conventional wisdom used to call for some static stretching before a game. Most coaches and trainers now focus on getting a dynamic warmup as it helps players be more explosive.

Young children warm up pretty quickly. A quick little jog, some dribbling drills and a little shooting is more than enough to get their little bodies ready for action. For older players, a little more structure is required. Try something like this:

3-5 Minutes Light Jogging

Rather than just running around the field, go from touchline to the penalty box and back. Use different types of movement: straight jogging, backwards jogging, side steps, high knees, etc.

3-5 Minutes Soccer Specific Movement

Here are three soccer specific dynamic stretches you may want to include:

1. High Knee to Ball
   
   Split the players up into groups of two. Have a player hold a ball at waist height while his partner tries to touch the ball with alternating high knees. Change places after a minute.
   
   
2. High Toe to Ball
   
   Split the players up into groups of two. Have a player hold a ball at waist height while his partner tries to touch the bottom of the ball alternating with each foot. You should be bouncing gently on your toes rather than staying flat footed throughout the drill. Change places after a minute.
   
3. Straight Leg Volley
   
   Split the players up into groups of two. Have a partner throw a ball for his partner to volley back at about waist height. Keep your leg straight and use the inside of the foot. Repeat 10 times for each leg and repeat for the other leg.