Thoughts on Charlie Francis and soccer

[svincenz]

@Charlie_Francis

Injuries are obviously a key issue at the pro level. As most injuries are training related, improved speed can play a huge role in prevention, since improved maximal speed potential reduces average percentage required in all aspects of game and practice speeds. This speed POTENTIAL must be built without the ball IMO. This can be designed into a program because the overall volumes can be quit low and there is no need for SE work separate from any that might be found in the game itself(this may sound strange but the sport is made up mostly of short bursts mixed with a substantial amount of aerobic work.)
as well, traumatic injury must be treated properly before it contributes to an injury that at first glance might seem unrelated. for example a blow to the calf restricts movement there and increases stress on the hamstring. i saw a clear example of this while at a Serie A team this spring.

Charlie, being faster means being a better player. And I think this is the most important thing. Being faster means being able to cover a larger part of the field, get first on the ball etc. I implemented your ideas in my off-season training, well, like day and night. The only thing is that I’d put a little more emphasis on distances up to 60 meters, I find them useful a lot. I agree, speed potential without the ball! Then, you use that speed potential in the field with the ball (sometimes).

P.S. a lot, again, a lot of top level soccer player are low level athletes.
Next time you are in Florence you have to organize a seminar, Charlie!