How can I make my child faster for soccer?

Soccer speed is rarely about running 100 metres

Think about what actually happens in a game. Getting to a loose ball. Closing down an opponent. Breaking into space. Recovering after losing possession. Beating a defender over the first few metres.

Most of these actions happen quickly and over relatively short distances. That makes acceleration incredibly important.

What we often see at ASP

We have worked with developing athletes since 2004, and one thing we have learned is that two athletes can appear slow for completely different reasons.

One may need more strength. Another may have the strength but lack the mechanics to use it effectively. Another may struggle with coordination. Another may simply not produce force quickly enough.

This is why we don't believe every athlete should automatically receive the same speed programme.

More running isn't always better

This is particularly important for parents. If an athlete has inefficient mechanics, simply adding more and more running does not necessarily solve the problem. Sometimes it reinforces it.

We would rather understand how the athlete moves, identify what needs attention and then develop it properly.

Strength and power matter too

Speed needs force. But becoming stronger does not automatically make an athlete faster. The strength needs to connect with good running mechanics, coordination and the ability to produce force quickly. Everything works together.

What does this mean for your athlete?

If your child wants to become faster, don't start by asking: 'How much more running should they do?' Ask: 'What is actually limiting their speed?' That is a much better starting point.