How to stay in shape during the close season and midwinter break

So football's off for its midwinter break and like lots of players you're wondering how you can enjoy the festive season without it impacting on your fitness levels.Here are a few things you might like to think about.

Stay in shape while having fun...

During the midwinter break, we're all tempted to indulge and eat fatty, sugary foods. Unfortunately, this is guaranteed to impact your physical conditioning. Footballers can play other sports to stay in shape while also having fun.

But you have to keep in mind that this isn't the time for intensive effort so you shouldn't be trying to set any personal records by running 20 km three times a week! Staying in shape will help you play your best after the break ends.

...By playing other sports

I recommend doing fun cardio activities, like cycling with your family, jogging with your significant other or friends, or even swimming with your kids.

It's better to choose moderate effort lasting 45 minutes to 1 hour, rather than workouts that overly impact your muscles and joints. Moderate exercise will make your body draw from its reserves and limit/avoid weight gain.

Sofiane boumezbar

Kipsta communication manager:

I've been passionate about football since I was a kid, and played with a club for several years. During my career, I was never afraid to attack the opponent's goal. I started out as a right/left midfielder before switching to playmaker and then striker. Nowadays I play with friends and colleagues, and still watch all the football I can.

You might also be interested in these tips:

Playing football in the cold

Winter is coming and with it the eternal conundrum of what to wear for matches and training sessions. How do you keep out the cold without sweating too much and without feeling restricted when you move? Here are a few things you might like to think about.

Staying in form during the midwinter break: circuit training programme

Staying in shape during the midwinter break: circuit training programme

The exercises I'm going to show you here will be more effective for footballers if complemented by a running programme. Want to find out more?

Five-minute strength workout (lower body)

How about a five-minute lower-body muscle-strengthening workout? Before we get into the details, I should tell you that it will allow you to maintain your muscle mass but nothing more. This programme won't help you squat 180kg. It's very effective but it's not a magical shortcut.