Winter is no reason to give up soccer training! Young athletes, full of energy and enthusiasm, do not mind the cold and snow. However, it is important to take care of the right clothing that will provide them with thermal comfort and protect them from the cold, wind and moisture. So how to dress a child for winter football training so that they can enjoy the game without the risk of catching a cold?
Layers are a must – dress “onions”
The most important rule is to dress “onions.” Several thin layers will provide better thermal insulation than one thick one. This also allows you to easily adjust your clothing to changing intensity of effort and weather conditions.
First layer:
- Thermal underwear: long-sleeve T-shirt and leggings/leggings made of breathable material that wicks sweat away. This is crucial to keep the skin dry and the child from getting chilled during breaks in play. Avoid cotton, which absorbs moisture and takes a long time to dry.
Second layer:
- Sweatshirt and sweatpants: Thin long-sleeved sweatshirt and sweatpants made of fleece or other warm material. They will provide additional thermal insulation.
Third layer:
- Jacket: A lightweight, windproof and waterproof jacket will protect against wind, rain and snow. It is advisable to choose a model with a hood for additional head protection.
Necessary supplements
In addition to appropriate clothing, accessories are also important:
- Cap: Protects the head from heat loss. A thin sports cap that fits snugly on the head and does not restrict visibility will work best.
- Gloves: They protect your hands from the cold. Choose sports gloves that provide a good grip on the ball.
- Comforter or scarf: It will protect the neck and face from cold and wind.
Footwear for winter training
For winter soccer training, soccer shoes with a higher upper are best, as they will provide better ankle stabilization and protect against the cold. It is important that the shoes are waterproof and have good grip on the ground, especially if the training takes place on artificial turf or on a pitch covered with snow.
Hydration is a must, even in winter!
Remember that during physical exertion , the body loses water, even on cold days. Therefore, it is important for your child to drink water regularly before, during and after training. Avoid sweetened drinks.
Some additional tips:
- Warm-up: Before any workout, a solid warm-up is essential to prepare your muscles for exercise and reduce the risk of injury.
- Cooling down: after training, it is important to gradually cool down the body. The child should remove wet clothing and put on a dry, warm sweatshirt.
- Let’s listen to the child: If a child complains about the cold, let’s not ignore it. It is always better to dress a child too warmly than too lightly.
Summary
Proper clothing is the key to successful and safe football training in winter. Let’s remember the “onion” rule, necessary accessories and appropriate footwear. Let’s also take care of hydration and warm-up. This will allow the young footballer to enjoy the game without the risk of colds and injuries.
