Key questions when planning MD+1 and MD+2 in football:
- How much rest should we give players?
- When should days off be scheduled?
- How does turn around time impact planning?
- How should we balance non-starters fitness?
Tips to create a better work:life balance in football:
- Effective time management
- Prioritize recovery for yourself
- Have 'no' as a default
- Establish clear boundaries
Advice when monitoring player readiness following matches:
- Create individual profiles for each player, with known 'benchmarks' and error boundaries
- Choose 3-4 readiness markers across different areas
- Use a combination of objective and subjective data
How to deal with conflict in football:
- Stepping back from a situation and reflecting
- Reframing negative thoughts
- Practicing active listening
- Clear non-threating communication
GPS feedback to key stakeholders - the KISS approach.
- Keep the information easy to understand
- Select metrics that make sense
- Ensure quick follow up and appropriate timing
No need to overcomplicate things.
Key considerations when implementing a recovery points system with players:
1. Initial onboarding and education
2. Scoring points aligned to evidence base
3. Blanket approach > individualisation
Potential future steps to enhance accreditation processes for football fitness practitioners:
1. Global standards
2. Streamlined processes
3. Integrated learning opportunities
It's time for the industry to have a shake up.
The ability to say 'no' is crucial to avoid long-term burnout in football.
Here are 5 tips on how to say no effectively:
1. Don't beat around the bush
2. Set clear boundaries
3. Stand firm
4. Be selfish
5. Be polite
Ways to maximise muscle glycogen replenishment in football:
- Aim for 1-1.2 g/kg per hour of high GI carbohydrates
- Co ingest with protein (0.4 g/kg per hour0
- Continue with high CHO diet on MD+1 and MD+2
3 key factors when using cooling therapies for recovery:
1. Budget
2. Practicality
3. Player adherence
Evaluate all 3 areas before committing to a recovery method.
Example content of a MD-2 session:
- Warm Up (10 mins)
- Speed Conditioning at end of warm up (5 mins)
- Technical Exercise (10 mins)
- Possession Drill (15 mins)
- Crossing and Finishing Drill (15 mins)
- Modified 10v10 Game (15 mins)
3 key factors when navigating your career path as a football fitness coach:
1) Hard work
2) Good understanding of football politics
3) Some luck along the way
You need a combination of all 3 to reach the top in the profession.