The training that makes every session count

Featuring expert insight from Henrik Kuchno, Athletic Coach at Hertha Berlin.

The best training sessions start long before the first whistle. We spoke to Hertha Berlin Athletic Coach Henrik Kuchno about the habits that separate professional footballers from the rest. From building routines to preparing with purpose, here are five practical ways to get more from every session.

Preparation begins before you step onto the pitch. Having your kit organised, your body warmed up and your mindset focused allows you to make the most of every minute. The more prepared you are before training starts, the more productive the session becomes.

"The players are required to be here 75 minutes before training, but everyone is already here earlier than that. The ones who lead by example always arrive with a clear plan for what they want to achieve."
- Henrik Kuchno, Athletic Coach, Hertha Berlin

Consistency creates performance. Whether it's eating breakfast at the same time every day, warming up in the same way or following a structured pre-training routine, building repeatable habits helps you prepare both physically and mentally. Small routines remove uncertainty and allow you to focus entirely on your football.

Every drill should have an objective. Rather than simply going through the motions, approach each exercise knowing what you're trying to improve. Whether it's passing accuracy, movement off the ball or pressing intensity, training with intent leads to better development over time.

"Every detail is important. How do I eat breakfast? When do I start preparing? How do I behave in the days leading up to matchday? The best players have structured routines for everything."
- Henrik Kuchno

More training doesn't always mean better training. A focused, high-quality session will deliver greater benefits than spending extra time on the pitch without purpose. Prioritise intensity, concentration and execution over simply adding more minutes.

"The key is to do the right thing at the right time. More is not always better. You can improve a great deal in ten to fifteen minutes, whether on the pitch or in the gym."
- Henrik Kuchno

Every training session is an opportunity to improve. Pay attention to feedback from coaches, reflect on your performance and identify one area to work on next time. The players who develop fastest are often the ones who are most willing to learn.