Soccer players have to keep fit because they cover lots of miles in a single game. If you have been to a soccer match, you have seen professional players always in motion, either running or walking, even when they don't have the ball. So how long should a soccer player run on a treadmill?
According to sports stats by NBC, the average distance a player can cover within 90 minutes of soccer ranges from 7-9.5 miles. However, some have covered less distance while others more depending on the player's position. Midfielders are always chasing the ball and are most likely to cover more distance.
During training, soccer players should replicate the time they run on the pitch or even more to have match fitness and endurance.
Speed
The ideal workout is performing four sets while running at 90-95% of your heart rate capacity for four minutes. Then, finish the routine with a 3-4minute jog to aid your recovery.
This is the equivalent of running 6-7 miles per hour within four minutes and winding it up with a four-minute jog at seven miles per hour.
Endurance
You can adjust your speed or time on the treadmill with time so that you can be able to cover more distance during the match day.
Acceleration
Start running at your comfortable pace, then gradually adjust the speed to a point where you can't run much faster. Try to keep the pace for the longest period that you can and slowly reduce the pace to a comfortable speed.
You can repeat the same process after 2-3 minutes.
Sideway Running
To get the best practice, start at a slow speed. At least 1-2mph; increase the speed with time as you master the technique. You can make it even more interesting by including a shuffle motion.
Place your leading leg forward and hop the hind to meet the front foot. Adjust the speed if you feel that you have control and balance. For the sideway running, ensure that you switch sides and give each foot an equal time on the treadmill as the lead leg.
Should Soccer Players Run or Jog on the Treadmill?
Long-distance running for soccer players makes their body get used to a slow tempo, which triggers the slow-twitch leg muscle fibers. As a result, this weakens the fast-twitch leg muscle fibers making the player slower.
Like sprinters, tennis players, and high jumpers, soccer players need to be explosive and have powerful bursts when running after the ball to score or defend. Therefore, they need the fast-twitch muscle fibers in plenty.
Soccer players can run during training, but they should consider high-intensity interval training to help boost their stamina and power.
Conclusion
Part of a soccer player's training program should include running and walking on the treadmill. However, it isn't a question of how long a soccer player should run on a treadmill but instead focus on high-intensity and practical training.