A restriction in soccer training sessions, for both adult and younger players, is any rule or limitation that changes how players can interact with the ball, their teammates, the scoring system, or the space around them. Restrictions, or constraints imposed during specific soccer drills or small-sided games, aren’t random rules; they’re strategic tools that coaches use to improve player development by replicating the pressure, speed, and decision-making demands of the real game.

When players face constraints during training sessions, something amazing happens: players are forced to adapt. For example, a forward practicing in small-sided games with touch restrictions develops sharper technical skills and quicker decision-making.

A midfielder working in tight spaces can develop better spatial awareness and learn to position themselves better. A defender training with limited time improves their ability to read the game and execute passes under pressure.

For players or coaches looking to add restrictions to a training session effectively, having the right soccer training gear and equipment can make these drills more efficient and realistic. In this article, I’ll break down what restrictions are and the most common types you can use during adult or youth soccer training sessions.

What are the different types of restrictions to use in soccer drills?

Restrictions in soccer training, also known as constraints, are boundaries, rules, or limitations that coaches use to create specific learning environments. When players are faced with limitations, they are forced to think outside the box, come up with creative solutions, and adapt their playing style to the demands of that game.

However, while restrictions can sharpen specific football skills, they can also hinder players’ decision-making and autonomy if overused. This means coaches should use restrictions strategically to avoid making players overly dependent on these artificial constraints for understanding different game concepts.

The balance between using and not using constraints during training is essential for the process of overall soccer player development. The following restrictions can be used for teams during different drills or small-sided games.

Remember, the main goal is to focus on key coaching points to develop a player’s skills in a controlled setting with an emphasis on that restriction.

Spatial Restrictions

Spatial restrictions involve changing the field dimensions or specific zones of a drill or small-sided game. For example, making the field in small-sided games smaller forces players to get more touches on the ball, make quicker decisions under pressure, and improve their ability to find space against opponents in tight areas.

Touch Restrictions

Touch restrictions limit the number of touches a player can take before passing the ball, such as one, two, or three touches max, to encourage quick decision-making and passing skills. This constraint forces players to scan the field more, anticipate teammates’ movements, and make successful passes with better accuracy.

Time Restrictions

Time restrictions involve limits on how long a team can possess the ball before advancing play, attempting to score, or getting points. This constraint, which can vary from 10 to 30 to 60 seconds, creates urgency and forces players to solve problems quickly while performing under the same pressure they’ll experience on match day.

Numerical Restrictions

Numerical restrictions involve changing the number of players on each team to create overload or underload situations. For example, playing small-sided games like 5v3 teaches defenders how to position themselves when outnumbered while giving attackers the advantage to explore and set up creative goal-scoring opportunities.

Technical Restrictions

Technical restrictions focus on specific skills by imposing rules like using only the non-dominant foot, one-touch passing restrictions, and mandating that the ball stay below a certain height. Coaches use these constraints to develop well-rounded soccer players who can execute high-quality technical actions regardless of the pressure of the game.

Scoring Restrictions

Scoring restrictions involve changing how teams can earn points, such as by scoring from certain zones, using specific techniques, or involving multiple teammates in the buildup before attempting to shoot at the goal of the opposing team. These constraints force players to think strategically about how to create goal-scoring opportunities rather than relying on individual skill alone.

Goalkeeper Restrictions

Goalkeeper restrictions limit how the keeper can distribute the ball, such as by requiring throws instead of kicks, or vice versa, or mandating that the ball must go to specific zones on the pitch. These restrictions can also involve the goalkeeper having to be involved in the build-up play.

About Daniel:

Daniel Pena is the creator of the Art of Football, a blog site about all things related to the beautiful game. Daniel is also a passionate footballer, coach, and sports coordinator based in San Jose CA, and you can find out more at Coach Daniel PT.