Training load planning is key for a team to perform at its full potential. It's not just about running more, but about training smart to arrive strong to every match and avoid injuries.
But football isn’t just physical — it’s also mental and emotional. Pressure, confidence, and passion play a crucial role in performance. A well-prepared team balances effort, strategy, and recovery.
That’s why in this article we review the 7 most common mistakes in load planning — and how to avoid them to take your team to the next level:
1. Not Personalizing the Training Plan
Applying a standard plan without considering individual player differences (position, age, injury history, fitness level) can be ineffective and even harmful when planning training loads.
✅ Solution:
Tailor training to each player:
Regular assessments with endurance and strength tests.
Individualized load analysis using GPS technology.
Use performance monitoring software to adapt loads to individual needs.
2. Overfocusing on Exercises, Ignoring Real Game Situations
Many coaches design physical training sessions that are not aligned with the actual demands of a match, leaving players unprepared to face real in-game scenarios.
✅ Solution:
Integrate physical training with tactical and technical context:
Implement exercises that simulate match situations.
Use GPS devices to measure effort and performance in realistic scenarios.
Evaluate cognitive load and decision-making in each session.
3. Not Considering the Next Opponent
Planning training load without factoring in the characteristics of the upcoming rival can affect match-specific preparation.
✅ Solution:
Adjust training based on analysis of the next opponent:
Tactical study of the rival and simulation of match scenarios.
Load planning based on expected match intensity.
Use GPS data to optimize post-match recovery and next-match preparation, as well as compare historical metrics.
4. Ignoring the Player’s Emotional and Mental State
Football is also mental. Ignoring stress, pressure, or lack of motivation can negatively affect performance and increase injury risk.
✅ Solution:
Incorporate tools to monitor emotional well-being:
Daily mood tracking through questionnaires.
Access to mental health professionals to support the squad.
Create an environment where players feel comfortable and motivated to give their best.
A mentally strong footballer makes better decisions, recovers faster, and maintains optimal performance throughout the season.
5. Rapid Increase in Training Load
Increasing the load too quickly without respecting physiological adaptation time can lead to muscle overload, extreme fatigue, and injuries.
✅ Solution:
Apply the principle of gradual progression: do not increase load more than 10% per week. Tools like OLIVER PRO’s GPS devices allow you to monitor external load and adjust progression based on objective data.
6. Monotony in Training
Repeating the same exercises leads to stagnation, reduced motivation, and increased risk of overuse injuries.
✅ Solution:
Introduce variety and specificity:
Combine aerobic and anaerobic endurance.
Work on football-specific functional strength.
Include high-intensity match simulations.
Data analysis technology helps assess what to improve and how to diversify training stimuli.
7. Neglecting Strength Training
Some teams prioritize aerobic and tactical work, neglecting strength training — essential for power, stability, and injury prevention.
✅ Solution:
Integrate strength sessions focused on:
Explosive strength (resisted sprints, Olympic lifts).
Functional strength and stability (core work and proprioception).
Injury prevention (hamstring and adductor strengthening).
Monitoring internal and external load with GPS tech allows you to track fatigue and ensure effective integration of strength work without compromising performance.
Effective load planning prevents injuries, optimizes performance, and improves player preparation.
Thanks to tools like OLIVER PRO’s GPS devices and data analysis platforms, it’s now possible to design training based on objective metrics and scientific evidence.
If you're looking to enhance load planning and improve your team’s performance, GPS sports monitoring technology provides the data you need to make informed decisions.
Let technology work for you ➡️ Learn more about OLIVER PRO and optimize your team's training.