How To Develop A Six-Week Training Programme | Webinar

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on developing a six-week training program for football. Drawing from insights presented in a recent webinar by England Football Learning, this guide highlights effective planning strategies, holistic approaches, and methods for recognizing individual differences within a team. This step-by-step approach will help coaches create impactful training sessions tailored to their team's needs.

Step 1: Define Intended Outcomes

• Identify Goals: Determine what you want to achieve by the end of the six weeks. Consider both team and individual player development.
• Align with Playing Style: Ensure that your intended outcomes are in harmony with your team's playing philosophy. This will guide your training focus.

Step 2: Develop a Holistic Approach

• Consider All Aspects of Development: Incorporate physical, technical, tactical, and psychological elements into your training program.
• Engage the Whole Group: Design activities that can benefit all players while also addressing specific needs. This promotes unity and team cohesion.

Step 3: Recognize Individual Differences

• Assess Player Abilities: Evaluate each player's skills, fitness levels, and learning styles. This helps in tailoring training sessions.
• Adapt Training Methods: Use varied drills and exercises to cater to different abilities. For example:
  • Advanced Players: Include complex drills that challenge their skills.
  • Beginners: Focus on fundamental skills and concepts.

Step 4: Structure the Training Program

• Weekly Breakdown: Allocate specific themes or focuses for each week. For instance:
  • Week 1: Focus on fitness and conditioning.
  • Week 2: Emphasize technical skills.
  • Week 3: Introduce tactical awareness.
  • Week 4: Practice game scenarios.
  • Week 5: Strengthen team dynamics.
  • Week 6: Prepare for competition.
• Session Planning: Create detailed plans for each training session, including:
  • Warm-up activities
  • Main drills
  • Cool-down procedures

Step 5: Evaluate and Adjust

• Monitor Progress: Regularly assess players' development and the effectiveness of your training methods.
• Be Flexible: Be prepared to adjust your program based on player feedback and performance. If certain drills are not yielding results, modify them or try new approaches.

Conclusion

Developing a six-week training program requires careful planning and consideration of both group and individual needs. By defining clear outcomes, taking a holistic approach, recognizing differences among players, structuring your sessions effectively, and remaining flexible, you can create a robust program that fosters development and prepares your team for success. As you implement this guide, remember to continuously evaluate and adapt your training strategies to ensure the best outcomes for your players.