Preparing for the Soccer Season

As the days get shorter and the weather cools down, thousands of children around Australia are preparing to grab a ball, throw on the boots and head to the local oval.  Welcome to the start of another soccer season!

If your child (or even yourself!) is heading back to soccer this year, we’ve put together some tips on the best way to prepare for the season.

After all, the best soccer season is a fun and injury-free one.

Why is it important to prepare for the soccer season?

There are several reasons why it is a great idea to prepare for the upcoming soccer season.

Preparing your child for the soccer season can help prevent injury – especially in those children who participate in year-round sport or who play multiple different sports. It is proven that children who are balanced, strong and healthy are less likely to be injured than those who are not.

Remaining injury free whilst maintaining a good level of strength and flexibility will allow your child the best chance to continue playing well into adulthood.

A healthy body off the pitch can make a great body on the pitch. Being prepared with adequate training, healthy eating, hydration and fitness will help your child play to the best of their ability.

What can you do to prepare for the soccer season?

1. Visit your physio 

As with any sport, it’s always a good idea to schedule a visit with your physiotherapist, prior to the start of the season. They can:

  • Assess your child’s running technique and gait

  • Ensure their footwear is correct and will support them during a game

  • Identify areas of physical and muscular weakness

  • Manage any muscular aches and pains

  • Provide warm up, cool down, stretching and strengthening techniques

2. Create healthy habits

Never underestimate the role nutrition, rest and hydration play in children’s sport. Providing a nutritious meal before (and after) the game, ensuring they drink plenty of water and providing adequate rest time will, not only help them during the season, but help them develop healthy habits they can take into adulthood.

3. Don’t overdo It

You want your child to head into the soccer season happy and fresh, not sore and sorry!
While training and practise can be great for athletic performance, too much, too soon can have the opposite effect. Remember to keep children’s sport about having fun and learning in a positive environment.

Whether your child aspires to be the next Ronaldo, or just wants to have fun with their mates, the team at Inspire are always here to help. 

For more information or to book an assessment, contact Inspire on 9972 3304.

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