SCIENCE & GOALKEEPING 2 - FITNESS TRAINING: A SCIENTIFIC APPROACH

INTRODUCTION

As the last line of defence, the primary objective for the goalkeeper is to keep the ball out of the net. Secondary to this, the goalkeeper can also influence his teams scoring potential as the first point of attack. Therefore, fitness training for goalkeepers should be focussed on developing a goalkeeper's ability to achieve these two objectives during match-play, whilst also conditioning the body and mind to withstand the demands of competition.

Specialised fitness training for the goalkeeper should never be undertaken purely for the sake of training rather, each training session should be approached with a knowledge of exactly what you are trying to achieve in the session, for what reason, and exactly how you are going to achieve it. This requires careful thought and planning, designing and implementing the training program according to sound, scientific principles to optimise the goalkeeper's performance capabilities.

Therefore, to design a safe and effective performance training program requires:

1. A thorough knowledge and understanding of the demands of goalkeeping, and the injury risks associated with competitive match-play, to gain a full appreciation of exactly what it is you are trying to achieve through the program.
2. An objective system of testing and monitoring to create profiles of each individual goalkeeper. These will help identify the current strengths and weaknesses of the goalkeeper, ensures gains are being made and maintained and provides an opportunity for goal-setting to enhance motivation and adherence to training.
3. A knowledge and understanding of scientific and research proven methods of training and periodisation that will safely and effectively progress each goalkeeper towards the attainment of their goals.