Spring is right around the corner and you know what the means – a new soccer season is on its way! In order to take on the new season, creating healthy habits will be your key to success. Unfortunately, there are no “hacks” that will suddenly make you play like Messi or Ronaldo, but being consistent will make this season a great one! Now, here are 10 ways that you can get ready for the upcoming soccer season!

1. Get Back into a Fitness Routine

We understand it’s probably been a while since you exercised or had a fitness routine, but it’s finally time to get back at it! Getting back into a fitness routine could include stretching, strength training, or your favorite quick workout. Not only will it prepare you for the intense workouts your coaches will have planned for you, but it will help prevent you from possible injury. 

2. Learn from Your Mistakes

If there was something you did wrong last season, make sure you don’t repeat yourself this season. Whether that be your organization, time management, or skill development, learn from what you did wrong last year and do the opposite!

3. Make Sure You Have All Your Equipment

Do you have your cleats, socks, shin pads, and water bottle? Do your shorts and jerseys still fit you? If you don’t know the answer, go check! Don’t wait until the last minute to figure out what you do and don’t have. You never know, what you need might be sold out in stores.

4. Improve Your Cardio

Soccer is not only about skill, but about endurance. We know it sucks feeling tired when doing cardio training, but it’ll help you in the long run. In a match, you’ll be doing quick sprints and chases, so get a head start on your endurance training!

5. Take Out Your Practice Ball

How long has it been since you dug your practice ball out from the back of your closet? If it’s still back there collecting dust, dig it out and practice some drills. You can do this independently or with some friends but practice some drills so you’re more comfortable on the first day!

6. Create Good Eating Habits

Nutrition is an important part of being an athlete. By eating a healthy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as snacks throughout the day, you’ll have the energy you need to make it through a busy schedule. Create good eating habits that fit your lifestyle so that you’ll be energized when the soccer season arrives.

7. Get in Touch with Your Teammates

Do you know anyone on your team this year? Or do you still have to go through tryouts? Either way – try to get in touch with any teammates that you might know so you can support each other going into a new season. There’s nothing better than laughing and hanging out with your teammates before the season to relax and gain confidence.

8. Work on Your Speed & Agility

A major part of performing well is your agility skills. Having accurate passes, quick feet, and changing the direction of your body fast are going to be key aspects in a match. Try to incorporate these types of exercises into a routine, and practice it a few times a week before the season begins. 

9. Don’t Forget to Sleep

Nothing is more important than sleep when you have a busy schedule. Before the season begins, create good sleeping habits to prepare you for what’s to come. With early morning or late-night practices in the near future, it’s better to be in a good routine than not!

10. Have a Good Mindset

The new season is coming up and you should be EXCITED! Your mindset entering the new season should be to have fun and push yourself to improve at your own pace. Do your best to not compare yourself to others, and focus on your own quality of performance. Remember, confidence is key and can have a major impact on how you play!

If you don’t have all of the gear you need, head to Soccercards.ca! We’ve got practice apparel, soccer balls, drinkware, and backpacks that will all come in handy throughout the season. If you need inspiration on how to train at home, head to our Pinterest where we have saved some quick drills you can use to warm up your skills.