How to Prepare for Football Games

How to Prepare for Football Games

Every minute counts in a football game, so you need to prepare yourself to go full speed from the opening kickoff. Your team’s organized pregame drills will cover some of your warm-up needs, but you’re primarily responsible for items such as nutrition and mental preparation. A thorough pregame routine will ensure that your equipment, your body and your mind are all ready for action when your number is called.



Arrive about two hours before the game, if you travel directly to the field. If you’re traveling with your team, leave home early to make sure you arrive at the transportation hub on time. If you’re delayed in traffic, you may literally miss the bus.

Examine your equipment when you arrive in the locker room so you have time to replace or repair anything that’s damaged.


Bring different shoes to the game that are appropriate for various field conditions. Longer cleats, for example, offer better traction if the field is wet. Take a light jog on the field before your team’s organized warm-up, to loosen your muscles and to ensure that you’re wearing the best cleats for the field conditions.



Think about the game you’re about to play for at least a few minutes and visualize yourself succeeding. Run through specific plays in your mind and imagine yourself carrying out your assignment, such as making a pancake block if you’re an offensive lineman or tackling a runner one-on-one if you’re a linebacker.


Participate in your team’s organized warm-up activities. Continue to visualize positive outcomes as you perform the exercises and drills.




If you've been injured, give your team's medical personnel an accurate report on your status before the game. If you try to play through an injury you may risk doing long-lasting damage.