Running with the ball and changing direction By Michael Beale

Running with the ball and changing direction

By Michael Beale

The focus in this warm-up is on controlling the ball and changing direction. It needs skill and concentration from all your players so they can work without constantly losing possession.

This is a great warm-up to get your players ready for a match or training session.

Set up

Place three poles or cones in a line each five yards apart. Have a team of players at either end of the poles.

Key elements

Running with the ball under control, changing direction and passing.

• Arrange your players into two groups.
• Two balls work simultaneously.
• Players must dribble between the first and second poles, then back between the second and third poles (slalom style) before making a pass to the opposite team.
• Get your players to run with the ball out of their feet and then slow down in order to change direction.
• The practice is repeated for a set time period.