Certificate in Physical Training & Soccer Methodology
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This Course Enables You To:
- Tapering & Periodisation
- Microcycle, planning & performance
- Game Model Development
- Individualised Periodisation
- Developing a Working Model
- Player carbohydrate requirements
- Physical & Tactical Periodisation
- Maximal intensity conditioning
- Training session design
- Competitive Microcycle
Course Details
All ISSPF courses are developed and delivered by a faculty of elite coaches who work at the highest levels of the game, spanning every continent and all FIFA Confederations
How do you achieve and manage the balance between physical and tactical training? Where does a fitness coaches work end and where does the work of the soccer coach start?
The Certificate in Physical Training & Soccer Methodology
provides you with the most efficient and modern training methods, drills and exercises to maximise the physical, tactical and technical development & preparation of your players for peak performance.
This course is suitable for:
Individuals tasked with the responsibility for the coaching, training, & preparation aspects of soccer players from youth to senior levels.
Individuals with an interest in developing their skills and knowledge in the training methodology, physical training & development of soccer players.
The course is comprised of the following:
20 study hours
Pre- & post-lecture reading references
Multiple-choice tests
Tutor assessed assignment
Certificate of Achievement
Practitioners & coaches can only benefit themselves & their players further by a more in-depth knowledge of physical training & soccer methodology.
The focus of the course is as follows:
- Provides latest research findings, most efficient training methods and detailed insights into developing a soccer based methodology around player fitness & tactical strategies
- Provides an understanding of how to maximise development & preparation of players in a more efficient & modern approach
- Understanding how to balance key training elements from a technical, tactical & physical preparation in order
to attain peak performance
Who is this course designed for?
This course has been designed for beginner to elite level coaches who want the latest research findings, most efficient training methods and detailed insights to attain peak performance of their players.
How long is the course?
This is a 20-hour course providing a deep overview of soccer science and performance best practices that can be applied to your own team environment to improve the performance of your players.
Is my progress logged through the course?
After each lecture there is a short multiple-choice test designed to cement your learning. You can access your test results at anytime through your course progress area.
Can I stop/pause a presentation part way through?
Yes, the course is completely flexible. You can go back to a module at anytime and continue from where you left off.
Can I take the modules in any order?
No. The course follows a set structure that must be studied in numerical order. You can only access the next module once you have completed the previous module test.
Is there a time limit on the course?
Yes. This course has a 6-month access limit. You can access the course 24/7 within this period.
Will I get a certificate to show that I have passed the course?
Yes, you will receive a pass certificate provided you have attained the minimum pass grade of 75%.
If you have any further questions, please Contact Us.
Official Accreditation By ISSPF
- This course is fully accredited by ISSPF & ensures the study hours will contribute to the achievement of a formal accreditation & ISSPF continued professional development.
UEFA Federations:
Official Accreditation By Latvian Football Federation (UEFA)
- The Latvian Football Federation (LFF) fully accredits ISSPF online courses. Completion of these courses contributes to formal LFF accreditation and professional development. ISSPF courses are also recognized for UEFA PRO to C course revalidation and Professional Diploma refreshment.
Official Accreditation By Slovenian FA (NSZ) (UEFA)
- The Slovenian FA (NSZ) fully accredits ISSPF online courses. Completion of these courses contributes to formal NSZ accreditation and professional development. ISSPF courses are also recognized for UEFA PRO to C course revalidation and Professional Diploma refreshment.

Official Accreditation By Iceland FA (KSI) (UEFA)
- The Iceland FA (KSI) fully accredits ISSPF online courses. Completion of these courses contributes to formal KSI accreditation and professional development. ISSPF courses are also recognized for UEFA PRO to C course revalidation and Professional Diploma refreshment.
Official Accreditation By Lithuanian Football Federation (UEFA)
- The Lithuania FF (LFF) fully accredits ISSPF online courses. Completion of these courses contributes to formal LFF accreditation and professional development. ISSPF courses are also recognized for UEFA PRO to C course revalidation and Professional Diploma refreshment.
CONCACAF Federation:

Accredited by British Virgin Islands Football Association (BVIFA), CONCACAF
- This online course holds full accreditation from the BVIFA, guaranteeing that study hours count toward formal accreditation and BVIFA’s professional development. Additionally, it’s accepted for BVIFA-CONCACAF course revalidation.
Official Course Endorsement
Endorsed By Scottish Football Association (SFA)
- This course has been endorsed by the SFA as part of the revalidation process.
Endorsed By Bournemouth University (BU)
- This course is fully endorsed by the Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, England, UK.

Endorsed By East Tennessee State University (ETSU)
- This course is fully endorsed by the ETSU, Tennessee, USA.
Endorsed By Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM)
- This course is fully endorsed by the UiTM, Malaysia.
Endorsed By Wrexham University
- This course is fully endorsed by the Wrexham University, Wrexham, Wales, UK.

Official Accreditation By Estonia Football Association (UEFA)
- The Estonia FA (EJL) fully accredits ISSPF online courses. Completion of these courses contributes to formal EJL accreditation and professional development. ISSPF courses can be used for UEFA PRO to C course revalidation and Professional Diploma refreshment.

Official Accreditation By Football Association of Finland (UEFA)
- The FA of Finland (FAF) accredits ISSPF online courses as part of their UEFA coaching program & course revalidation. Completion of these courses contributes to formal FAF accreditation refreshment and professional development.
Course Modules
TRAINING ENVIRONMENT - PART A
Delivered by Dr. Adam Owen
In this lecture we deep dive into tapering & periodisation in soccer. We will discuss Periodisation models & theoretical base,
Traditional vs. contemporary concepts, Tapering strategies & managing the training week. Pitch based content – preparing & conditioning, & off to on-pitch links – conditioning philosophy.
Delivered by Dr. Alejandro Romero-Caballero
In this lecture we deep dive into Reinterpreting Tactical Periodisation. We will discuss tactical periodisation background, Implications & considerations of training methodology, Developing a game model & structuring the microcycle.
Delivered by Dr. Efthymios Kyprianou
In the lecture, we look into developing a working model. We will discuss soccer specific profiling – player evolution, structural organisation within soccer, planning & periodisation – specificity of the game, training session content – drill design, & targeting physical outcomes with soccer training.
Delivered by Hamish Munro
In this module, we deep dive into integrating physical & tactical periodisation in soccer at both senior and youth levels. We will discuss tactical periodisation overview – recap, building a game model – holistic approach , integrating physical periodisation into tactical periodisation, & considerations of tactical periodisation in youth soccer.
Delivered by Dr. Adam Owen
In this module, we deep dive into preparing the modern soccer player. We will discuss selective principles, training guidelines – balancing work & recovery principles, pre-training preparation, pitch based content – training session design, & sport specific strength & power development.
Delivered by Dr. Dawid Golinski

In this lecture you will explore load monitoring methods used functionally within the game. We will discuss weekly training microcylces, specific soccer strategies for planning and performance & how we can maximise this in our work with teams.
Delivered by Jarred Marsh
In this module, we deep dive into individualised periodization in a soccer team . We will discuss Periodisation models & defining training load, Player load & training load response, Sport specific training games – practical problems, & Individual based programming & training tapering.
Delivered by Liam Anderson
In this lecture we look at the carbohydrate requirements of soccer players and the implications for periodisation. We will discuss activity profiles & metabolic demands of play, meal types & nutrition for performance, fuel for the work you do – understanding what’s needed, & nutritional periodisation.
Delivered by Dr. Miguel Angel Campos Vazquez
In this module, we deep dive into maximal intensity conditioning periods in soccer. We will discuss game demands & understanding the training requirements, training game formats & physical responses, physical vs. tactical strategy – preparing for the demands of the game, & drill design & justifications to compete.
Delivered by Dr. Manuel López Segovia
In this module, we deep dive into competitive soccer training microcycle. We will discuss evolution of competitive soccer demands, an example of a weekly training structure – working microcycle, training session examples and specific content, opposition analysis & game plan development, technical-tactical-conditioning implications of the microcycle.
GAME ENVIRONMENT - PART B
Delivered by Jyri Niemenen
In Module 1, you’ll look at scanning & field information, game references & decision making processes. You’ll also explore tactical understanding, training the player and structuring the content.
Delivered by Ivan Kovčić
In Module 3, you’ll look at both team and individual development whilst also learning more about isolated and integrated training. You’ll also discover how to detect problems with references and implement specific content.
Delivered by Andy Quy
In Module 5, you’ll look into the demands of the Goalkeeper during set-plays including the key physical components, training and specific power development.
Delivered by Ivan Kovčić
In Module 7, you’ll look at specific soccer language and quality goalkeeping actions You’ll also look at in-training and opponent analysis, finding out how to be ready to adapt and develop.
Delivered by Matt Newton
In Module 9, you’ll look at the physical competencies of the Goalkeeper and injury epidemiology & etiology. Find out how to assess injury risk and strength and condition your programme.
Delivered by Lee Baxter
In Module 2, you’ll look at the key principles & objectives of a Goalkeeper coach. Find out more about the ‘Keepers Corner’ – a holistic approach and how to manage your working process and surroundings.
Delivered by Fabian Otte
In Module 4, you’ll look at goalkeeper skill & performance training research, findings and discussion. Find out which specific match warm up phases to use and why.
Delivered by Dr. T-Ecken
In Module 6, you’ll look at the importance of resilience & adversity in high-performance soccer. Find out how to use the resilience framework and how to avoid negative performance.
Delivered by Andy Quy
In Module 8, you’ll look at the demands of the Goalkeeper during set-plays. Explore the key physical components, functional training and primary movements.
ISSPF COURSE REVIEWS
What you get with your enrolment:
- 30 day money-back guarantee
- Certificate of Achievement
- Tutor Assessed Assignments
- 20-Hours Soccer Methodology Training
Course Certificate
Improvement Guarantee
Steve McClaren
REVIEWS FROM PROFESSIONAL COACHES
“This is by far the most innovative style of learning that I’ve seen in this digital era. The breadth of topics covered, combined with the level of detail and insights makes this a must learning environment for any coach who is working or wants to get into the game and progress to the highest levels.”
Manchester Utd, Middlesborough, FC Twente, Wolfsburg, Nottingham Forest, Derby County, England
Ringo Wu
REVIEWS FROM PROFESSIONAL COACHES
“ISSPF have managed to provide our soccer coaching staff within our college team with a 1st class opportunity to learn & apply some key performance coaching aspects. The opportunity to personally develop & track the staff’s progress through their assisted e-learning process is very impressive. I highly recommend the content as a must for all individuals tasked with the development of soccer players across all levels of the game.”
Kari Ukkonen
REVIEWS FROM PROFESSIONAL COACHES
“Working with ISSPF as an educational partner has allowed us here at the Football Association the chance to provide CPD and continue to educate our coaches across a wide range of learning levels from our UEFA foundation levels through our UEFA Professional Licence. Offering our candidates, the chance to use both the ISSPF platform & specific soccer courses, is a huge advantage to us as an education provided within the game”
Vin Blaine
REVIEWS FROM PROFESSIONAL COACHES
“An experienced director with a demonstrated history of working in the soccer industry & having developed across a range of sports psychology, match analysis, player development, and sports management – I feel the opportunity to integrate the e-learning facility available from ISSPF into as a federation, club or individual self-development level is of huge benefit. As a FIFA & CONCACAF Instructor & Director of Football I have rarely seen an educational tool as good as this to positively influence individuals across a range of key soccer topics.”
Leo Lucas da Silva
REVIEWS FROM PROFESSIONAL COACHES
“Using the ISSPF learning facility has opened my eyes to the detail and incredible knowledge provided from an elite faculty of elite coach developers and soccer science educators. As an individual who continually wants to progress my coaching pathway, I think this might be the best solution to increase my awareness of all elements of the game. The large amount of content and lectures available has already, and will continue to improve me. Gaining the Foundation Certificate in Soccer Science & Performance was extremely to me.”
Sir Alex Ferguson
REVIEWS FROM PROFESSIONAL COACHES
Sports science, without question is the biggest, most important change in my lifetime. It has moved the game onto another level that maybe we never dreamt of all those years ago. Sports science has brought a whole new dimension to the game.”
Aberdeen, Manchester United
Oriol Gonzales
REVIEWS FROM PROFESSIONAL COACHES
Jingze Quan
REVIEWS FROM PROFESSIONAL COACHES
Woody Jacobs
REVIEWS FROM PROFESSIONAL COACHES
“Working as both Assistant Manager with elite players of our national team, I have been able to directly take a lot of content and thought provoking ideas from the content on view within ISSPF and use them to the benefit of our national players. Furthermore, I am delighted to say that we are now integrating the ISSPF online courses into our coach development program to uplift the whole coaching education aspects of our nation.”
Susan Lockyear
REVIEWS FROM PROFESSIONAL COACHES
“As the game develops within the professional women’s game & also filters down within the girl’s academy programs across the world, we are proud to be at the forefront of driving the developmental aspects of the game in this area. To be able to link as an educational partnership with ISSPF is a huge part of our federation soccer development strategy, and as we can now offer a range of online content, certification qualifications and courses from a range of leading professionals – we have already seen a direct enhancement across our coaching content and performance department delivery.”
Lorenzo Francini
REVIEWS FROM PROFESSIONAL COACHES
As a fitness coach and sport scientist working at the elite level of the female game, I feel that ISSPF and their integration of both applied and academic quality is something that will be of huge importance for people within our industry. ISSPF have manage to accumulate a faculty of leaders across soccer science, medical & coaching science that will enable them to educate people from a very insightful and practitioning way.
Peter McDonnell
REVIEWS FROM PROFESSIONAL COACHES
“The layers of content within ISSPF is in a league of it’s on when considering CPD options for coaches of all levels. Having explored many avenues through my own coaching journey, the detail embedded in the courses really lends itself to closing the gap between the integrated knowledge across the fields of Sports Science and the actual application of the skills on the field. Being able to learn from many experts, across a global faculty, affords me the ability to step into their professional world and soak in the abundant knowledge they have, all in my own time. ”
Claudio Donatelli
REVIEWS FROM PROFESSIONAL COACHES
“ISSPF have been able to seamlessly provide all individuals with an interest in team sports and specifically soccer with the chance to learn from some of the best people in their key research areas. Developing throughout my career as a fitness & conditioning expert and applying the scientific principles of training at the elite level of the soccer, I feel being able to use the e-learning strategy within ISSPF challenges and adds further credibility to my working practices. I highly recommend individuals from all learning levels to tap into the fantastic resource available here. ”
Tony Merola
REVIEWS FROM PROFESSIONAL COACHES
“Never before have I seen a unique set of soccer specific performance & coaching specialists under one banner and available 24 hours a day 7 days a week to learn within the comfort of my own home. Being part of the educational partnership program with ISSPF has opened up a new & time efficient way for both myself as Technical Director, and my club coaching and fitness staff to up skill and develop as coaches.”
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Individuals tasked with the responsibility for the training & coaching aspects of both individual athletes or team sports
- Individuals with an interest in developing their knowledge in the preparation, training & development of individual athletes or team sports
- Sports coaches or football practitioners keen to understand more about sport science, developing a training methodology & athletic development training in team sports
- Individuals with an interest in training and coaching
- This course is developed and structured for all individuals with an interest in developing their knowledge around the key performance area of physical training and sporting methodology approaches to team sport including soccer or football
- Students with degree level or post-degree level educations, learners with UEFA, CONCACAF, CONMEBOL, AFC or other FIFA recognised coaching awards in the training & development of individual soccer players or team sports.
- If you are an individual tasked with the responsibility for the coaching or coaching education developmentaspect of both individual athletes or team sports
- This is for you if you are an individual with an interest in developing your knowledge in the training periodisation, and coaching methodology developmentof individual athletes or team sport players
- Understanding the key components of what drives coaches, players, & athletes to succeed is of paramount importance
- Provides most efficient training methods and detailed insights into developing player fitness alongside tactical strategies & developing a training methodology
- Gain a better understanding how to maximise development & preparation of players in a more efficient & contemporary game model approach
- Learn how to balance key training elements from a technical, tactical & physical preparation in order to attain peak performance
- Practitioners & coaches can only benefit themselves & their players further by a more in-depth knowledge of physical training & soccer methodology
- Help maximise your decision making through a better understanding & appreciation of tapering & soccer periodisation
- Learn from industry experts in the area of football science, sport science & performance training in team sport
- Help maximise your decision making through a better understanding & appreciation of football or soccer science
- This course discusses the most efficient coaching methods and performance, sport science principles and detailed insights into how to program them within a team sport environment
- Provides you with an increased evidence & knowledge to understand key physical training, soccer science and performance training methodology processes
- Help you to understand the key performance elements and interventions used to organise a training development model in line with physical development of players
- Gives you more information in order to prepare, perform & recoveryour team sport athletes from both a training and match-play or competitive scenario
- Allows practitioners and coaches tobenefit themselves and their players even further by having a more in-depth knowledge of this key physical training performance area
- Learn from industry experts in the area of football methodology in team sports around these key areas:
- Periodisation
- Training monitoring
- Game model development
- Tactical periodisation processes
- Integrated training
- Nutritional integration of training
- Preparing the modern player
- Help maximise your decision makingthrough a better understanding & appreciation of football or soccer science
- You will learn from industry experts in the area of football science, sport science & performance training in team sports
- Help you to maximise your decision makingthrough a better understanding & appreciation of football or soccer psychology and how it can benefit you as a coach or practitioner
- This course will help anyone interested in making better decisions when it comes to discussing and implementing a physical training and football methodology intervention or structure.
- You will learn from industry experts in the area of football fitness and physical development processes in team sports, especially football coaching science
- This course has been developed by some of the most respected practitioners in the game to help players and coaches develop in the key areas of football science and coaching:
- Football periodisation
- Training monitoring
- Game model development
- Tactical periodisation processes
- Integrated training
- Nutritional integration of training
- Preparing the modern player
ISSPF courses are not only recommended by universities and federations around the world, but they are delivered by some of the leading practitioners in the game which will provide some cutting edge methods and industry overview on dealing with specific aspects of performance coaching and development largely including physical training in a team sport environment. ISSPF are working at accrediting all their courses through academic and footballing institutes in order to provide additional academic currency to the learner.
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