Thanks to FIFA, soccer has become a world-renowned powerhouse for unbelievably talented athletes and fans alike. Whether you have a dream of making it as a professional soccer player or have made those aspirations a reality, it is important to continue your training into the winter months. Here are a few tips that may help when cold weather gets in your way.
Focus On Nutrition
While many professional teams are working towards Qatar 2022, nutrition takes a considerable toll on your ability to bounce back from grueling matches and a busy schedule. Green superfood powder can be a great addition to your usual supplements and meal plan. Adding natural, plant-based ingredients into your diet that make it easier to get in all your greens helps to boost your body’s immune system. You may not think this will play a significant role in your preparations, but you don’t want to worry about getting sick or battling colds when you have goals to meet.
While additives can give you the edge you need to get where you need to be, the majority of your efforts should go towards taking in enough nutrition to fuel your body and shorten your recovery time. Lean proteins, simple carbohydrates and vegetables are a great way to start. You should also avoid fast food, alcohol, or any meals that are high in cholesterol and sodium. Lastly, staying hydrated is another key ingredient to your success.
Join a Winter League
There are many ways to stay in shape year-round, but there is no better motivation than one that offers a little competition. The off-season can be difficult to fight through when all you are craving is a game. Joining a winter league is an excellent means to work on your weaknesses, both as a player and for your team as a whole. There is nothing that will add to a well-rounded skill set and team cohesiveness like experience. If you have an opportunity to add to your resume, it may be beneficial to your future as a player.
Don’t Forget the Cardio
Soccer is one of the most cardio driven sports you can play, which means you have a fair amount of training to do this winter. Believe it or not, completing your cardio in the cold can give you more gains than you may think. If this is not an option for you, there are plenty of indoor options to get you where you need to be. Stationary bikes and treadmills can give you the opportunity to stay in shape without having to hit the field in the freezing weather. There are plenty of apps like Aaptiv that offer indoor training programs to push your cardio limits and keep you on track this winter.
Watch Film
Even the best FIFA players like Messi and Ronaldo have to continue to up their ante each season. Watching a previous game film of yourself to see your mistakes first hand is one of the techniques that will put you above the fray without having to worry about physical strength and speed. In fact, the most successful players can work on both their physical and mental toughness to pave a future for themselves in soccer. You may be surprised by how watching film can help you understand where your coaches are coming from and get you that much closer to being your best. It is imperative to remember that there is a lot more that goes into being in shape than endurance and skill. Once you come to accept this notion, you are on your way to being at the top of your game.
Conclusion
Being in shape (both mentally and physically) is no mean feat, especially when you are talking about a demanding sport like soccer. Nonetheless, the more you play, the easier it will be to develop a routine that will make it that much easier to stay motivated during the winter months.
