Main description:

Now in a fully revised and updated fourth edition, Science and Soccer is still the most comprehensive and accessible introduction to the physiology, biomechanics and psychology behind the world's most popular sport. Offering important guidance on how science translates into practice, the book examines every key facet of the sport, with a particular focus on the development of expert performers. The topics covered include:

* anatomy, physiology, psychology; sociology and biomechanics;

* principles of training;

* nutrition;

* physical and mental preparation;

* playing surfaces and equipment; injury

* decision-making and skill acquisition;

* coaching and coach education;

* performance analysis;

* talent identification and youth development.

Science and Soccer: Developing Elite Performers is a unique resource for students and academics working in sports science. It is essential reading for all professional support staff working in the game, including coaches at all levels, physiotherapists, conditioning specialists, performance analysts, club doctors and sport psychologists.

Contents:

1. Physical Preparation

2. Resistance Training

3. Aerobic and Anaerobic Training

4. Soccer in the Heat: Performance and Mitigation

5. Nutrition for Match Play and Training

6. Recovery Strategies

7. Psychological Characteristics of Players

8. Anticipation and Decision-Making

9. Skill Acquisition: Player Pathways and Effective Practice

10. Sociological Influences on the Identification and Development of Players

11. Player Wellbeing and Career Transitions

12. Developing (Adaptive) Coaching Expertise

13. Injury Epidemiology, Monitoring, and Prevention

14. Infectious Diseases

15. Biomechanical Assessments

16. Analysis of Physical Performance in Match-Play

17. Technical and Tactical Match Analysis

18. Monitoring Training

19. Utilising Training and Match Load Data

20. Growth and Maturation

21. Talented or Developmentally Advanced? Player Assessment and Evaluation

22. Talent Identification and Talent Promotion

23. Modern Approaches to Scouting and Recruitment

24. Working as a Director of Sports Science or High-Performance Director

25. Working as a Sporting Director