Focusing on Scientific Maximization of Physical Strength

`Strong, weak, and stronger.`

A morning training session of the Korean national soccer team was held at Seoguipo Kangchanghak Stadium on the 7th. Players warmed up before playing a mini passing-game, and then, got into a light technical training in defense and offense teams. It is a complete change from the 3-day intense physical training that was held between the 3rd and 5th. Training time also has reduced by half an hour.

Behind coach Guus Hiddink’s repeated statement, “The team’s strength will be maximized before the Polish match on June 4,” there is a `principle`. So-called `periodicity theory`.

“Periodicity theory is that when our body experiences strong stimulation, it first becomes shocked but then, it adjusts to it soon. Using this principle, physical capability can be increased by raising the degree of stimulation periodically, and I think Hiddink is applying this principle,” said exercise-therapy director Kim Yong-Kwon of Seoul Asan Hospital.

Football Association’s technical advisor Kim Kwang-Myung said, “The fact that the evaluation match schedule follows 5-day intervals is part of the maximization process of strength, as Scotland will be played on the 16th, England on the 21st, and France on the 26th.” The plan is to take `3 strong days, 2 weak days` in a 5-day interval.

Lee Young-Pyo commented that “such training seems quite scientific, because it doesn’t put too pressure on the body while increasing stamina”. Song Jong-Kuk also said, “I feel confident since I can feel my capacity getting better step by step along with the training program.”

Meanwhile, the Korean team held a secret session at Seoguipo Dongbu Stadium on the previous day, in order to complete set-plays.

Jong-Koo Yang yjongk@donga.com