The news regarding FIFA 14 for PC gamers came in the late hours of last night as we reported via our Twitter account. FIFA 14 on PC will not utilize the next-gen EA Sports IGNITE Engine announced yesterday at the Xbox One reveal event.

ON MAY 22, 2013 0 10

For years Liverpool FC fans have wondered why their beloved club has not undergone the special FIFA treatment, with facial scans and custom club covers. That all changed this morning as LFC agreed a 3-year partnership with EA SPORTS and the FIFA franchise.

On Jun 27 0 20

Strength Training for Soccer Players: Equipment That Supports Power and a Healthy Back

Weight training has become a standard part of modern soccer preparation, from academy players to weekend league regulars in South Florida. The aim is not bodybuilder bulk. It is the kind of strength that helps you win shoulder-to-shoulder duels, accelerate out of a turn and stay on the pitch through a long season. The right equipment, used sensibly, makes that easier and protects the lower back, which takes a lot of load from sprinting, jumping and striking the ball.

Equipment worth having

  • Kettlebells: Swings and goblet squats build hip drive and posterior-chain strength, the muscles behind sprint speed and powerful shooting.
  • Resistance bands: They are cheap and portable, and useful for glute activation, hamstring work and warm-ups before training or a match.
  • Adjustable dumbbells: They work well for single-leg exercises such as split squats and step-ups. These matter for a sport played mostly on one leg at a time.
  • Trap or hex bar: Many coaches prefer it to a straight barbell for deadlifts because it keeps the torso more upright and can reduce stress on the lower back.
  • Stability ball and foam roller: These are handy for core work, back extensions and recovery sessions.

Protecting your back

Back support starts with technique rather than gadgets. Learn to hinge at the hips, keep a neutral spine and build the load up gradually. Weightlifting belts can help experienced lifters with heavy sets, but they do not replace a strong core. Planks, dead bugs, bird dogs and Pallof presses do more for everyday spinal stability than any brace.

Fitting lifting around football

For most players, two short strength sessions a week are enough. Keep heavy lifting away from match days, and in Miami's heat, hydrate well and train in cooler hours where you can. If you have an existing back problem or any injury, get advice from a physiotherapist or qualified coach before you start a new programme.

Want to see how strength shows up on the pitch? Our match analysis often looks at the physical side of the game. You can also find more practical reading in our guides.

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