Speed training is an essential repertoire of the soccer player.

Without speed, a soccer player no matter how skillful or technically capable may struggle on the pitch in this highly competitive days and fast paced games.

Soccer speed training makes use of training aids that can be worn by the player or used as training guides.

A speed training aid that is commonly used is the speed parachute. Speed parachutes are very useful in improving speed and power during acceleration. Used during sprints, the resistance provided by the speed parachutes develops and improves raw speed and acceleration much better than sprinting on it’s own.

Another form of speed resistance training is the use of weights which are pulled along as the player sprints or run. A more costly alternative, it is a common sight in professional soccer training.

Resistance bands and harnesses are also used in speed training which acts as a form of pylometric training and improves power and especially jumping height. In certain drills, the players may need to work in pairs.

Speed hurdles is another common speed training aid used in improving speed. Coming in various heights, they are used often in speed training to improve sprinting form and technique as well as quickness of feet.

Speed ladder is another training aid used which besides improving speed also helps in improving agility.

A useful form of speed training which does not need any special equipment is slope training or incline training. In this form of speed training, the soccer player makes use of gravity as his primary aid in providing the impetus and resistance required to improve. All he needs to do is run up the slope. Stairs training also generally make use of gravity. These forms of training are generally classified as pylometric training.

There are many other kinds of training aids and equipment used in improving power and speed with the above being the more popular. The choice of training aid used depends on the budget and personal choice of the player and the coach or coaches involved.

Agility training equipments