Interval training can help football players improve their speed, endurance and coordination. Interval training is an important tool used in the off-season and during training camp. Once the season is underway, coaches may dial back on interval work to keep players fresh for games. However, interval training is one of the best ways to prepare for the season.
Interval Running
Prior to the start of training camp, get yourself into shape with interval training. Go to your local track and sprint 100 yards. Get back to the starting line as quickly as possible and sprint 90 yards. Follow that with sprints of 80 and 70 yards. Take a two-minute break and repeat the set. Do one more such double-set before you leave the track.
Speed Ladders
Perform a speed ladder drill at the start and finish of practice during training camp. Line up all your players on the goal line. On your whistle, players will sprint to the 10-yard line and back, the 20-yard line and back, the 30-yard line and back and the 40-yard line and back. Give players a two-minute break, then have them repeat the drill.
Rope Ladders
Set up a 30-foot rope ladder. To build agility, set up cones every 10 feet on the agility ladder. Players should sprint the first 10 feet of the ladder, then turn around and come back in the same manner, the Sports Fitness Advisor website instructs. Sprint the first 20 feet of the ladder, then return. Finally, sprint 30 feet, then return. Take a two-minute break, then repeat this drill.
Benefits
Interval training will help players gain speed, agility and endurance. Coaches need to give players individual programs to follow during the off-season so they can be in shape when they return to the team for training camp. While off-season weight training is a major area of concern for all players, interval training can provide just as much of an advantage on the field. As a result, it is just as important as off-season weight training.
Member Comments