Continuous practice is invaluable for excelling at any sport, including soccer. Outside of playing the game, various exercises and drills will keep your body in good shape. The guide below outlines the most popular activities that will help youth soccer players ensure they're ready to perform their best on the field. 

What Exercises Make You a Better Soccer Player?

1. Ball Drills 

Great footwork is key to excelling at soccer, which you can improve on through drills. These are simple but effective exercises you can do alone or with friends. Dribble the ball in a circle using the inside or outside of your foot. Next, try juggling it on the top of your foot. As it falls, tap the ball with the top of your foot and keep it moving for as long as possible. You can progress to juggling with your knees, chest, or head.

2. Agility Tests 

Soccer players must be agile to outsmart others on the field and move efficiently without hurting themselves. Creating agility exercises for yourself will test how quickly you can move on your feet. 

Get five or six cones and set them at least 2 feet apart. Then dribble the ball as quickly as possible while weaving through the obstacles. If you have additional cones, you can build more complex courses that require you to make tight turns or rapidly switch the ball from one foot to the other. Try different variations of these exercises to improve your game. 

3. Strength Exercises 

Like any athlete, a youth soccer player needs physical strength. Endurance and cardiovascular health are particularly important in this sport. Going on runs, lifting weights, or doing bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, or planks will build up your core.

You should also improve your flexibility, which you can do with stretching or yoga. Follow age-appropriate workout plans targeting different body parts to build strength in the arms, legs, shoulders, back, and core.

If you plan to join a youth soccer league, consider Beachside Soccer Club in Norwalk, CT. This training organization helps players ages 5 and up to excel at this popular team sport. They prioritize safety, teamwork, and positivity to help kids become the best players they can be. Learn more about what they offer online, and call (203) 852-6969 for any questions.