base training

These sessions are used during pre-season, and where players need to build aerobic base fitness, in preperation for more intense training. It is important that a player has a good foundation of base fitness or aerobic conditioning, on which to add more intense anaerobic and speed training.

At any stage, sessions from any level can be used but, it is recommended that sessions are selected to reflect the stage in the season and the player or team's level of fitness.

Although soccer is a team sport, it doesn't mean that the whole team should train together and do the same conditioning sessions. Different players have different levels of fitness and different requirements dependant upon their position. These requirements will be determined during fitness tests and programs developed to concentrate on required areas.

There are three levels of base training, phase 1 should last for 4-6 weeks at start of pre-season and is aimed at players working on their own. The 2nd and 3rd phases can be carried out as team sessions or by players on their own. Remember that these sessions are aimed at players 13 and older, younger players 10-12 can use these sessions but at a lower level of intensity or duration.

At any stage of season training, a coach may decide to return to phase 2, which can last another 4 weeks. A coach may also decide to put a player back onto these phases if base fitness or endurance levels look like they need more work.