by Eric Bau

Strength and agility are two of the most important attributes that soccer player must have. In order to build up these qualities, soccer players need to practice a number of exercises to achieve these goals.

Weight training is a great way to stay in shape both during and after the soccer season. There are specific weight training exercises that can be very beneficial. Strengthening the legs is ideal for soccer players and this can be accomplished with proper weight training.

There are several different moves that can be done to help increase strength and precision in soccer players. Weight training is the best way to build muscle and it also helps with overall body conditioning. Of course, there are some weight training exercises that are better than others for soccer players.

The Hang Snatch is a great weight training exercise for soccer players. Begin with shoulder width stance. Keep the feet flat and the arms completely extended. The back should be flat and the weight bar is a little above the knees. Start the move with a strong triple extension of the ankles, hips and knees. While this is taking place, shrug the shoulders and bring the bar to the highest point possible. The final move requires going into a half squat posture while the arms hold the bar completely extended over the head.

Another prime weight training move for soccer players is the Parallel Squat or Single Leg Squats. Begin by building weight on the back muscles but avoiding putting weight on the neck. Keep the chest full and the back arched a bit. Keep the eyes looking ahead and the feet shoulder be kept at shoulders width distance. Hold the weight on the heels.

There is an apparatus that is available in some gyms. It is called a Jump Machine and it is very useful because it allows a total body workout. Players jump up and down on the Jump Machine with their knees bent while holding bar bells. If the Jump Machine is not available, the motion can be simulated by jumping up and down while holding bar bells. This is a great way to build strength in both the arms and legs.

Soccer goalkeepers need to undertake a different fitness regimen that other soccer players. When weight lifting the goalkeepers want to lift enough weight to increase their muscle mass. Use free weights and weights on barbells for bench presses, dead lifts, upright rows, chin ups and military presses. These exercises, coupled with cardio routines are the best ways to improve goal keepers fitness.

Before starting serious weight training, it is important for soccer players to already be very familiar with weight training. Heavy weight training regiments should be planned out and practiced on a regular basis. Set up a schedule that alternates between weight training and cardio.

A trainer or coach should determine the amount of weight that is used in weight training. Soccer players do not want to get too bulky so they would want to use lighter weights so that they could build strength and endurance. Soccer players need to be flexible and fast. The goalkeepers can be a little bit stockier but they also do not want to be too big.

Soccer players want to stay away from the run of the mill three sets and ten repetitions. This regiment is designed for people that are working on bulking up their bodies. Instead, soccer players will do better practicing Pilates. Pilates is a great choice for soccer players because it develops lean muscles and strength. There are Pilates machines that help athletes get into proper Pilates form.

Behind The Goal Line Eric Bau was born in Toronto Ontario and started playing soccer at the age of 4. He has played in many leagues though his 23 years in the game and on many different competitive levels. Visit Behind The Goal Line for more information http://www.behindthegoalline.com

Article Source: ArticleSnatch Free Article Directory

Last Updated on Sunday, 08 August 2010 14:33