Common sense tells us you should train the body the way it’s used in a game.  The majority of movements in soccer demand control of the abdominal muscles while they are lengthening in a multitude of directions.  How then does lying on the ground doing straight ahead sit-ups prepare us for these demands?  It doesn’t.  In fact it often sets us up for injuries either by creating tight muscles and muscle imbalances or by inadequately preparing the torso for the demands of soccer.

 The core is now recognized as much more than just a solid foundation from which the arms and legs move.  It is an integrative centre that produces and controls forces and coordinates movement of the upper and lower body.  This is how it should be trained.  If you watch a player effortlessly strike a ball and it takes off like a rocket it is presumed the strength of his leg has produced this.  In fact he has created this power from the core and pelvic region.

 There are many trainers and physiotherapists that can help you design a core program specific to your individual needs.  It is crucial that you are instructed and perform these exercises correctly. If not these exercises will be ineffective at best or leave you on the sidelines on the injured reserve, at worst.