Strength and conditioning programs are a great way for AFL players to improve their performance. They also help prevent injuries and improve overall fitness. However, choosing a program that’s right for you is important. You should find a trainer who has excellent credentials, is well-respected in the community, and has experience working with athletes your age.

AFL players often train several times a day to maximize their performance. They may spend hours in the weight room and on the field. They also need to rest after workouts so their body can recover and repair themselves.

Many people assume that AFL players only work out during their off-season, but they train all year round. They also follow different routines for each game to ensure they are always on top of their game and ready to perform when the team goes on the field.

Health Benefits of AFL Strength and Conditioning Programs

The main reason why AFL athletes train so much is that it helps them perform better on the field. They use a range of exercises to build strength, endurance, and speed. They also focus on explosive movements, which means they train their fast-twitch muscle fibers to go from zero to max faster.

One of the most common AFL exercises is the bench press. It’s an important exercise for all footballers to do as it develops a strong chest. This can help you get through tough contact situations on the field, especially when your opponent is trying to snare you and push you to the ground.

Another essential strength and conditioning exercise is the calf raise. This simple but effective workout can prevent injuries such as shin splints.

Other exercises that AFL Strength and Conditioning may want to incorporate into their training program include lunges, step-ups, squats, and push-ups. These exercises can help them improve their balance, agility, and coordination.

Core Training

AFL athletes need to have a strong core to be able to sprint, change direction, and stop quickly. This is why they implement core training into their workouts.

They also want to strengthen their shoulders and rotator cuffs in order to protect them from injury. This can be achieved through flywheel training, which uses a small wheel to increase the amount of explosive strength in the upper body. This helps to develop a ruckman’s vertical jump during a tip-off and helps a player contest a mark.

Keeping a good cardiovascular system is also important for AFL athletes, so they should incorporate cardio exercises into their routines. They should also practice yoga or Pilates as these can help them increase flexibility and reduce stress on their joints.