A Youth Soccer Magazine

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"Balance Exercises for Youth Soccer Players"

By Ryan Lee, MS, CSCS

Balance is an important, and often neglected, component of soccer training. Running and kicking a soccer ball require balance on one leg at a time, yet often our young athletes do not spend enough time on improving balance. Poor balance and body awareness can potentially lead to more falls and injuries.

Below is a simple progression you can do with your athletes after they have warmed up. Start with the easiest balance exercises, and move up to the more difficult ones as they adapt to the exercises.

Stand on two legs
Stand on one leg
Stand one leg and position arms overhead and in other positions
Stand on one leg and close eyes
Stand on one leg and use a unstable surface such as a pillow or mat (this challenges their balance)
Stand on one leg with eyes closed and use a unstable surface such as a pillow or mat (this challenges their balance)

As they progress you can also incorporate a soccer ball. For example, have them stand on one leg for 30 seconds, then toss them the soccer ball and let them kick it back to you without losing balance.

You can even make it a game by having them get into a large circle and see how long they can balance on one leg.

You get the idea. Use your creativity and you'll see improvements in the balance of your athletes. The more fun you have with balance exercises, the more your athletes will enjoy doing them!

Ryan Lee is a sports training expert who specializes in helping athletes improve their performance. Visit his web site for a FREE weekly sports training newsletter filled with cutting-edge training articles and programs.

To visit http://SportSpecific.com...Click Here

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