Why Do Soccer Players Need a Strong Core?
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While there are many benefits to developing a strong core, there are also a few common misconceptions about soccer and how it is best to build a strong core. Whether you are a professional or a weekend warrior, there are several reasons why you should develop your core.
Not only will it benefit your athletic performance, but it will also decrease your risk of injury. If you want to be the best soccer player possible, this post will provide some insight on how to develop a stronger core!
Why Do Soccer Players Need a Strong Core?
A strong core is critical for many reasons. It is essential for total body strength, and it is essential for agility. It also helps prevent injuries in the legs and lower back. You will be able to move with more power and agility, and you’ll be less likely to suffer an injury.
You’ll also be able to control your head and stay upright during intense moves. Your head should be in a neutral position, but you should still have a slender, strong upper body for optimal performance.
1. Recovery & Injuries
A strong core will help you recover more quickly from games and practice sessions. A soccer player who works on his or her strength is better able to go into a game at 80 percent or higher.
This means that they’ll be less likely to sustain injuries during gameplay. A strong core will also help you play faster and feel better. And don’t forget that the muscles in your back will aid you in your game.
Soccer players also need a strong core because they are constantly being challenged by the game. A strong core will prevent injuries and keep you in shape and help you win the ball when you’re shoulder-to-shoulder with another player.
A strong core also protects your lower back and hips from injury. So, if you’re looking to improve your game, focus on strengthening your core muscles. Your body will thank you.
2. Maintaining Balance During Play
Having a strong core will help you stand and balance while playing soccer, as well as help you to throw (during corners) and kick the ball. A strong core will also help you run with more power and accuracy on sprints. You’ll have better endurance as well.
A strong core isn’t just for soccer players, either. In fact, it is important for anyone who plays a competitive sport or even just walks around all day at work, as these muscles will aid in maintaining an upright standing position.
3. Improve Performance & Speed
A strong core is essential for speed on the ball, fast starts and stops on the field, kicking or throwing with power and accuracy, making quick cuts to avoid opponents while dribbling, and shooting on goal more accurately. The stronger you are in your core muscles, the faster and more powerful your shots and passes will be.
Soccer players need to stay low and maintain their balance, as well as keep their heads up, shoulders square, hips level, knees bent, plant foot ready for a quick turn under the ball. As you can see, developing your core muscles is crucial for performance as a soccer player as it helps you to gain control, protect against injury and improve your game.
4. Explosive Movements
A strong core is important for explosive movements, such as sprinting or jumping. Training your core will help you do this more effectively.
You’ll also find that your muscles are less fatigued after training and during games. A strong core is critical to keep you playing at the top of your game for as long as possible. Soccer players need to be prepared not only for competition but also to train their bodies day in and day out to stay fit and healthy.
Tips For Developing A Strong Core To Improve Your Soccer Performance
Developing a strong core will help you become the best soccer player possible, so now is the time to start doing squats, crunches, planks, and all manner of exercises that target your abdominals.
- Start training abs more often.
- Focus on both toning and strengthening, this means both bodyweight ab work and weighted ab work for the best results.
- Don’t neglect your diet; you can’t out-train a bad diet, though it may seem like it sometimes.
- Be consistent in training.
- Incorporate an agility ladder into your warm-ups.
- Do more soccer specific training (tackle/dribble poles) and plyometrics.
- Do squats.
Squats help To Build A Strong Core
Squats are not just great for building strong leg muscles, but they also work your core muscles. There are many different variations of squats you can do to strengthen your legs and back, giving you a strong foundation for moving on the pitch.
In our 6-Week Soccer Specific Training program, we focus on a variety of weightless legwork drills and plyometrics that help to build your core and power on the pitch. Leg work is, of course, paramount in soccer, making it a priority in your training.
