5 Reasons to Try Outdoor Soccer

In this post I’m sharing my top 5 reasons to try outdoor soccer.

1. Soccer is an amazing cardio workout, but it doesn’t seem that tough when you’re playing. You have small breaks when the ball goes out of bounds and someone has to run after it to bring it back, or when you sub off so a teammate can come on. You’re running all over the field, changing directions and covering other players. You’re not going in a straight line for very long. Did you know that professional soccer players end up running 5 km in a 90 minute game?

2. You can find a team and league that fits you. The league that I played it was recreational and non competitive. While we all put in our best effort, we didn’t keep a record of scores or which teams won. There were only 4 teams, so we ended up playing each team quite a few times by the end of the season. I know there are lots of other leagues that take winning seriously and have a minimum skill level required to play. Whatever level you want to play at, you can find it.

3. There’s not much equipment needed. The only things you absolutely need to play outdoor soccer are cleats, shin guards, and socks to put over your shin guards. I was able to get cleats, shin guards, and two pairs of socks for under $200. It’s a pretty good investment knowing that it’ll last for multiple seasons. Other than that you’ll need the usual workout clothes – shorts, shirts, and sports bras – which you’ll likely already have.

4. Other than being on the basketball team in grade 7, I haven’t really played team sports. Being on the soccer team, playing with the same women every game, and making friends was really fun. I had no idea I was going to get that out of soccer. It didn’t just stay on the field either. A few times we went out for drinks after games, and we stayed in touch over the summer by email.

5. There’s something about working out with others that makes me push myself further than I would if I was by myself. When I’m going after a ball that’s just rolled past me I try my hardest to get there before a member of the opposing team. Seeing others leave everything on the field makes me want to do the same thing.

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