How to Do a Proper Youth Soccer Warm-Up

A proper soccer warm-up helps the mind, as well as the body, perform at its best. It also lessens the risk of injury.

Things You'll Need

  • Soccer Balls
  • Soccer balls
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take your time. A proper soccer warm-up takes about 10 minutes for younger children and 10 to 15 minutes for older children.

    • 2

      Consider the conditions. A warm-up may be shorter during hot weather or on soccer tournament days, which include numerous games.

    • 3

      Incorporate all soccer skills. In addition to stretching, a warm-up should be soccer-specific and should duplicate aspects of the game, such as dribbling, passing and shooting.

    • 4

      Make sure goalkeepers have their own warm-up. It should incorporate all the skills of that position.

    • 5

      Keep warmed up. Do not let the body go cold after the warm-up. Players should be urged to keep moving (for instance, by stretching in place) during the frequent breaks in play.

    • 6

      Wear proper clothing. Players should have layers that they can easily shed or put on.

    • 7

      Take it easy. Do not use too much energy during a warm-up, or allow players to compete with one another.