Youth Inc. Recommends: Five Great Resources to Improve Your Speed for Soccer

Speed can be a game-changer in soccer — whether you’re chasing down a through ball, recovering in transition, or breaking free on a counterattack. But getting faster isn’t just about running more. It’s about technique, timing, and training the right way. 

These five resources offer speed-building drills, pro-level insights, and footwork techniques that can help players of all ages increase quickness, agility, and explosiveness — no speed ladder required. 

Here are five great resources to help you get faster for soccer: 

The Keys to Improving Speed in Female Soccer Players

What it is: An article by Erica Suter that outlines key principles of speed training tailored specifically for girls. 

Why we like it: It goes beyond drills to emphasize intentionality, form, and age-appropriate development — a must-read for parents, coaches, and athletes.

Mbappé’s Speed Secret That You Can Learn Too

What it is: A breakdown of Kylian Mbappé’s most underrated speed trait — step frequency — and how to train it. 

Why we like it: This is elite-level insight made simple. Coach Carsten Effertz makes world-class speed feel attainable with clear, trainable steps.

Increase Your Soccer Explosiveness

What it is: A video from 7MLC’s Michael Cunningham focused on acceleration, deceleration, and explosive movement. 

Why we like it: Cunningham is one of the best in the game at breaking down mechanics in a way that’s both practical and motivating.

Five Exercises for Fast Feet

What it is: A set of five footwork drills to build speed, agility, and quickness — using just cones and a small patch of turf. 

Why we like it: Simple. Effective. Reproducible. Great for individual training at home or warming up before practice.  

The Secret to Speed for Young Kids

What it is: A clip from the Fit Soccer Queen podcast with @jumpscience, sharing what young players should focus on to build true speed. 

Why we like it: Most youth speed content is too advanced or generic — this one’s spot on for younger kids who are just getting started.