The advantages of continuing to train during the layoff

Finding the motivation to keep on training can be hard when there are no matches on. Is going out for a run, working on your muscles and building your core strength really worth it?

Keeping yourself in shape is good for your morale!

Firstly, as a footballer you're used to training regularly. Training helps you relax (after a hard day of work, for example), empty your mind, keep your body in shape (perhaps even burn some calories that mean you can enjoy your food even more...) and produce dopamine, the infamous "happiness hormone".

Stopping all training overnight can be hard for your morale, and it can really feel like you're missing out. To avoid this, I recommend continuing to train as the situation allows, with the most important thing being to keep taking part in sport. And when the football starts up again, you'll feel pleased that you haven't completely stopped your cardio and avoided gaining that extra 10 kilos!

Being ready to get back on the pitch

Continue working on your cardio, strength training, and coordination so you can return to the pitch without feeling like you're starting from scratch. You'll also be back up and running much more quickly than someone who stopped training for several months. And your coach will be pleased that they can count on their players being in top form... and hungry for the ball.

An opportunity to train differently

Make the most of this time without competitions to take a different approach to training. For example, you could train in your garden (if you have one) using a goal and a few accessories. By focusing on your individual training, you can also increase your athletic capabilities and focus on reducing your weaknesses as far as possible.

You could even combine work and play by setting yourself challenges or having small matches with friends or family.

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