The keywords in training youth: the rhythm

Few days ago finding myself having to prepare a training course for expert coaches, I thought on what it could be more interesting for them. Having few time I have tried to think of a key concept that I could leave them and that it could be just to represent and retrieve not only a word but a way of organizing the training, a way of approaching the boys, a way to management training. The key word on which I chose to reflect is rhythm. Rhythm of the training is a prerequisite for a good performance.

The rhythm is an orderly succession according to a certain frequency of any form of movement that takes place over time.

What happens in the different categories if it fails the right rhythm?
For “piccoli amici” (first category in Italian football school) to perform appropriate movements but with a low frequency and a consequent increase in waiting time will result in confusion, loss of attention and ultimately less fun for the kids.
Losing the rhythm of the “pulcini” (second category in Italian football school) in a workout means finding a team bored or subjected to excessive physical stress, in the case where the frequency of movements should be higher than the sustainable age of the children. The result will be a consequent increase in the injury probability.
The “esordienti” (third category) have more awareness of their right rhythm. A non adequate and excessive rhythm training comes a lack of confidence in their own ability. If the rhythm is low and they feel themselves not engaged in the coach proposal, there will be a lack of confidence in the coach competences.
How to give rhythm to training:

  • Right alternation of phases of activity and recovery
  • Adequate number of departures based on the number of players
  • Research of the athletes autonomy in the management of training (right times of departure)
  • Delete unnecessary pauses
  • Manage time regularly
  • Effective communication: brief, simple, essential
  • Precise management methods in launching the departures (1,2,3 away, ready way, whistle)

If the coaches are successful in giving and keep the right rhythm, they  will notice that the team members are dragged into the global movement, subordinating their own rhythm to the team, and often winning even fatigue. This situation in football will mean seeing many more children who manage independently their recovery and less that “belt shoes”.

“The child has the right to be trained at their own rhythm” (Art, 5 Children’s Rights Chart)

(by Daniela Sepio)

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