When it comes to injuries in amateur football, summer training is often a critical period. The combination of a long break, increasing workloads, and limited supervision makes this phase particularly high-risk, especially for those without ongoing medical and physiotherapy support.
The rising frequency of injuries in football, well-documented even at the professional level (Ekstrand et al., 2021, British Journal of Sports Medicine), affects not only official matches but also transitional periods such as the summer. In the amateur context, summer training often involves a sudden increase in workload, frequently without proper progression, and among individuals with highly varied physical conditions.
Excessive Loads, Inadequate Progression
Scientific literature has highlighted for years that overload—especially when not managed with proper progression—is one of the main risk factors for muscle and tendon injuries. The rapid introduction of high-intensity running, friendly matches, and double training sessions without an adequate foundation of aerobic conditioning and strength work can be harmful. Studies such as Gabbett’s (2016) on the concept of the acute: chronic workload ratio clearly show that sudden spikes in weekly training loads are associated with a higher risk of injury.
The Importance of Strength and Neuromuscular Control
Simply “running” is not enough to get back in shape. It’s essential to design a program that includes specific strength exercises, motor control, and gradual progressions. Attention to movement quality is another key pillar, especially from a preventive standpoint. Structured programs like FIFA 11+ have been shown to reduce injuries by up to 30–50% when performed consistently.
Even in the amateur setting, early assessment by a specialist in sports rehabilitation is essential—especially in the presence of persistent pain or a history of previous injuries. The greatest risk is neglecting mild symptoms, underestimating residual dysfunctions, or failing to complete the rehabilitation process.
A Final Message for Players and Coaches
The season begins in the summer. A serious approach to preparation—including load progression, neuromuscular exercises, and medical assessment of individual weak points—is the best investment for staying on the field consistently. A medical check-up, combined with a targeted recovery or neuromuscular strengthening plan, can make the difference between a smooth season and one plagued by setbacks.
The scientific evidence is clear: those who train smart get injured less and play more.
