Relay Stretch Circle Cool Down

Objective

• -Lengthen the main muscle groups after work
• -Give players ownership of the cool down
• -Close the session calmly

Setup

1. 1A wide circle with players spaced an arm's length apart in a 14 x 14 yards area.
2. 2Split into teams of three or four behind separate start cones.
3. 3One ball for the talking point.

How to play

1. 1Players take turns leading a stretch for the group.
2. 2Hold each stretch for 20-30 seconds without bouncing.
3. 3The ball is passed to whoever speaks next.
4. 4First player goes on the whistle and tags the next on return.
5. 5First team to complete three full rotations wins the round.

Progressions

• +Add a skill gate on the way back
• +Raise the demand once the group is consistently successful

Regressions

• -Shorten the distance
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Teams pick the order of their runners each round
• -Run the practice on the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Rushing through the holds
• -Coach doing all the talking
• -Setting off before the tag