Wave 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. 2Form three waves of players behind the start line.
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. 4Each wave sets off two seconds after the one in front.
5. 5Every wave completes six journeys before the practice ends.

Progressions

• +Reduce the gap between waves
• +Raise the demand once the group is consistently successful

Regressions

• -Increase the gap and slow the tempo
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Back wave starts facing away and turns on the whistle
• -Run the practice on the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Rushing through the holds
• -Coach doing all the talking
• -Waves bunching into one crowd