Soccer
Soccer is the World Game, and is the one and only Football in many parts of the world. It is played in all corners of the world and its popularity is shown by the big stage of The World Cup held every four years. It is played with a round ball (traditionally with black and white checks), which is only kicked by the feet. This excludes the goal keeper, who can use hands only in the goal area. A goal is scored when an attacking player kicks the ball into the opposition net. Games are usually low scoring. There are 11 players on the field, with some substitutions coming late in the game. If a player is substituted off they cannot come back onto the field. The game consists of 45 minute halves, with a half time break. Players are not allowed to come off the ground during playing time
Fitness for soccer consists of: Physical fitness is one of the most important aspects of soccer performance. A skillful player will go a long way in the sport, but without the fitness part of their game they will not be the complete player.
Aerobic endurance fitness is one of the most important physical fitness attributes for soccer players. Players need to be able to maintain a high level of intensity throughout the 90 minute game. Another very important fitness component is anaerobic fitness, which means running speed and particularly repeat sprint ability. Players also need good agility, strength, power and flexibility.
Training for soccer consists of:
Regular training is needed for all areas of fitness. Here are some important factors to remember for an effective training program. Have a good plan. The training should be directed to achieve specific goals and be individualized to maximize the physical capabilities of particular players. In order to improve, the physical load needs to be increased over time as the players get fitter. By using cross training and by incorporating fitness into the training drills it will keep it interesting and maintain the motivation of the players.
Assessing fitness consists of:
Regular fitness assessments are required to monitor training improvements and to determine which areas are best to concentrate on. There are some good soccer specific fitness tests and others that can be used to test the overall fitness of soccer players.
Playing positions of soccer consist of:
The physical demands will vary for players in different playing positions, and the training should reflect that. The goal keeper has very specific fitness demands. Fitness training for the goalkeeper should concentrate on explosive power and flexibility. The body's intrinsic reaction time is not something that is easily trained, though practice and technique can enable the goalie to better read the play and be in the best position to make quicker decisions.