Traffic 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 16 x 16 yards area.
2. 2Scatter spare cones through the middle of the area as obstacles.
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. 4Players travel through the busy middle without touching an obstacle.
5. 5One point per clean crossing, minus one for a collision.

Progressions

• +Reduce the area so traffic increases
• +Raise the demand once the group is consistently successful

Regressions

• -Enlarge the area and remove obstacles
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Two players travel as a pair, side by side
• -Run the practice on the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Rushing through the holds
• -Coach doing all the talking
• -Eyes down and bumping into team-mates