Football is characterized by impressive feats of speed, strength, power and agility. But if you don’t have endurance, such feats are impossible to maintain through four quarters. (Check out The Ultimate Conditioning Test for Football.)

You may not like it, but conditioning after a workout is essential to get in shape for football season. This will allow you to play your best when you are running a hurry-up offense or trying to prevent the other team from scoring late in a game.

Most coaches incorporate conditioning into practices, starting with two-a-days. I encourage you to be proactive and take your conditioning into your own hands. You will be ready for every sprint while others are gasping for air.

The two best football conditioning drills are Gassers and 150-Yard Shuttle Runs. Do each of these drills once a week on different days, preferably at the end of your speed workout. Start with one set and progress to three sets as your endurance improves. Make sure to rest for two to three minutes between sets.

Gasser

• Assume starting position at one sideline facing the opposite sideline
• Sprint to the opposite sideline
• Slow down, drop your hips, turn your shoulders and touch the line with your left hand
• Sprint to the opposite sideline where you started
• Slow down, drop your hips, turn your shoulders and touch the line with your right hand
• Repeat for a total of four sprints

Time yourself and try to improve each week.

150-Yard Shuttle

• Assume starting position at the goal line facing downfield
• Sprint to the 50-yard line
• Slow down, drop your hips, turn your shoulders and touch the line with your left hand
• Sprint to the goal line where you started
• Slow down, drop your hips, turn your shoulders and touch the line with your right hand
• Repeat for a total of six sprints