Chapter 6 outlines the most effective callisthenic exercises to build whole body strength and Chapter 7
addresses how plyometric training can be used to develop and enhance explosive power. All the exercises
included have been modified to include technical training.
In addition to the high endurance levels needed to cope with the various physical requirements of a 90-
minute match, soccer players need to be able to perform repeated high-intensity actions such as sprints
and vertical jumps. In Chapter 8 we present ball-focused drills to increase both aerobic and anaerobic
endurance.
Chapter 9 describes how to integrate all the information of the previous chapters into an effective
training schedule and gives detailed examples of off, pre and in-season training plans.
In Volume 2, we explain how traditional technical and tactical training drills can be optimized to enhance
conditioning. Volume 2 also includes chapters on position-specific fitness training, ball-oriented warm-up
routines and fitness activities for goalkeepers
Total Soccer Conditioning: A Ball-Oriented Approach is written for coaches (including parent coaches),
strength and conditioning trainers, and athletes who want to maximize limited practice time or who want
to add variety to their conditioning, functional or technical training sessions. The exercises listed in each
chapter are clearly explained with the aid of diagrams, and include coaching points for both the physical
and technical (or tactical) components.
These activities are geared towards senior youth players and adults. However, we have also provided
exercises suitable for players in the pre-puberty (7 to 11 year olds) and adolescent (12 to 14 year olds) age
groups where appropriate.
Readers who have a limited knowledge of physical training will be guided with clear explanations of the
appropriate work-to-rest-ratios, sequencing of exercises, exercise intensity and training volume,
guaranteed to improve conditioning without overtraining. Similarly, persons whose limitations lie in the
area of coaching will find useful information on functional training with detailed ball-oriented drills that
target the technical requirements of the various playing positions.
Total Soccer Conditioning: A Ball-Oriented Approach is distinctive in its approach and offers a number
of benefits. It is the only book series devoted to soccer conditioning in which ALL exercises (except
stretching) involve a ball. It is also the only book series dedicated to soccer conditioning that includes
ball-oriented exercises for goalkeepers, in addition to describing how small-sided games (SSG) and
functional training activities can be modified to enhance fitness. Finally, it recognizes the challenges
faced by most youth and amateur coaches, and thus provides comprehensive and straightforward details
on how to structure training sessions to make them as economical as possible.
Undoubtedly, performance in soccer is affected by the level of conditioning in each player as well as the
ability to perform skilled movement patterns at high speeds of play. This book provides a comprehensive
and unique approach for coaches and players with limited training time to improve soccer-specific fitness
without compromising technical and tactical development.