
Coach Resources.
NeuroStrong Soccer-Specific Warm-up
Omaha Physical Therapy Institute’s NeuroStrong Warm-Up Protocol is grounded in evidence-based, soccer-specific neuromuscular training programs shown to both reduce injury risk and enhance athletic performance in soccer players. The protocol has been intentionally streamlined to maximize efficiency, effectiveness, and athlete compliance. With minimal equipment and a simple setup, the entire warm-up can be completed in just 10–12 minutes.
We recommend performing the full warm-up before every training session and match, with abbreviated versions used for re-entry or bench warm-ups and as part of a post-training or post-game cool-down.
For best results, athletes should complete the program at least 2–3 times per week, emphasizing proper technique and controlled movement throughout each exercise. Consistent use over time leads to improved neuromuscular control and kinesthetic awareness, resulting in a meaningful reduction in injury rates and more confident, efficient movement on the field.

Soccer Specific Warm-up
Omaha Physical Therapy Institute’s NeuroStrong protocol
- Jogging Forward/Jogging Backward
- Side shuffling with Arm Swings
- High knees/Butt kicks
- Carioca
- Shuffle-kicks/ Jog back
- Running Hip out / Jog back
- Running Hip in / Jog back
- Shuffle cuts forward / Shuffle cuts backward
- Forward lunge with arms overhead / Jog back
- Side lunge-pivot-side lunge (Alternating legs) / Jog back
- Running to stop on one leg at each cone down and back (Alternate legs)
- Diagonal run with lunge-turn at cones (Alternate legs) / Jog back 2 Repetitions
- Scissor lunges forward / Jog back
- Skater hopping forward. Perform down AND back.
- Quick running forward 2 cones, back pedal backward 1 cone / Jog back 2 Repetitions
- Sprint forward / Defensive shuffling back 2 Repetitions
HOPPING (5 reps each leg- make sure to bend your knee when you land!)
- Single leg hopping forward/backward over line or cone 5 repetitions each leg
- Single leg hopping side-side over line or cone 5 repetitions each leg
- Shoulder to shoulder hops with a partner 5 repetitions each side
STRENGTH AND CONTROL
TREATMENT PEOPLE DESERVE
Read more about our treatment approach.

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