When Should Football Players Lift?

I'm not what you would call a prolific researcher. At the moment the number of published journal articles adds up to two!! Well now I can add a third published (soon to be, it's currently in press) journal article.

I've known Martin Buchheit for a number of years so when he approached me regarding a 'project' he was working on I was more than happy to help. I didn't realise at the time it would end up as a published paper!

During heavily congested schedules, professional soccer players can experience significant fatigue responses which are thought to contribute to an increased risk of injury. Given match-induced residual fatigue can last up to 72 hours, many strength and conditioning and fitness coaches naturally prioritise recovery in the days immediately following match-day.

While this may seem like a really sensible approach, what if the time could be used for some complimentary training?

If you would like to find out what we think, download the full text PDF here, make yourself a brew and have a read.

Upper body resistance training following soccer match play: compatible, complementary, or contraindicated?