Soccer Warm up Drills

For soccer warm up drills, warm up drills for kids and youth soccer warm ups, check out our age and topic specific drills for kids of all ages.

soccer warm up drills kids warmup drills youth soccer warm up

Soccer warm-up drills are necessary to introduce a skill, technique, or tactic while allowing the player to loosen up and get ready for practice. These drills are often best at the beginning of training; however, depending on the skill level of the team can be the main drills on your topic.

Warm-Up Drills

3v1 Transition Rondo Medium

3v1 Transition Rondo

The 3v1 Transition Rondo drill emphasizes quick combination passing to unbalance the defender and shift the point of attack to an adjacent grid. This exercise challenges the defender to transition rapidly between areas, enhancing their ability to react under pressure. The focus is on sharp passing and strategic movement to exploit defensive weaknesses.

9+ yrs. 5 players 15 min. 7x14 yds. GK: no
0 7,731 Chris Johnson
Three-Cone Passing Drill EASY

Three-Cone Passing Drill

The three-cone passing drill focuses on passing, awareness, and movement after the pass. This is a great warmup to focus on passing technique and movement after the pass.

9+ yrs. 2 players 10 mins. 10X10 yds. GK: no
0 13,132 Chris Johnson
4v2 Rondo Medium

4v2 Rondo

The 4v2 Rondo is a great soccer possession game to work on passing, angles of support, and movement off the ball to maintain possession.

10+ yrs. 6 players 10 min. 10x10 yds. GK: no
0 11,426 Chris Johnson
Escape EASY

Escape

This drill enhances a player’s ability to move under pressure while maintaining balance and control. It also encourages teamwork and coordination among defenders using their hips to contain the central player.

4-10 yrs. 6 players 5-10 mins. 10X10 yds. GK: no
0 14,618 Chris Johnson
Troll Crossing Game EASY

Troll Crossing Game

Develops dribbling under pressure, decision-making in 1v1 situations, and ball protection. Players learn to change direction and use feints to evade defenders.

4-9 yrs. 6+ players 15 mins. 18X25 yds. GK: no
0 14,497 Chris Johnson
Dribble Speed Tag EASY

Dribble Speed Tag

This drill enhances dribbling under pressure, quick changes of direction, and spatial awareness. Players learn to protect the ball while navigating through a crowded area at speed.

4-9 yrs. 6+ players 15 mins. 15X15 yds. GK: no
0 4,379 Chris Johnson
Variable Distance Passing Game EASY

Variable Distance Passing Game

This drill improves passing accuracy, technique, and decision-making at varying distances. Players learn to adjust power and precision while maintaining consistency under pressure.

4-10 yrs. 2+ players 15 mins. 20X30 yds. GK: no
0 4,358 Chris Johnson