Soccer is a physically demanding sport that requires players to cover significant distances during a game.
The amount of running a player does can vary depending on their position on the field.
Below we look at how far soccer players run in a game, broken down by position.
By understanding the physical demands of each position, we can gain insights into the fitness and endurance required to excel in different roles on the field.
1. Goalkeepers
Goalkeepers have a unique role in soccer, as they primarily focus on defending their team’s goal.
As a result, their running distance during a game is significantly lower compared to outfield players.
On average, goalkeepers cover around 2,000 to 3,000 meters per game.
This distance includes movements such as positioning themselves in the goal, making saves, and occasionally venturing outside the penalty area to intercept long balls or participate in set-piece situations.
2. Defenders
Defenders play a crucial role in preventing the opposing team from scoring.
They are responsible for marking attackers, intercepting passes, and clearing the ball from dangerous areas.
Defenders generally cover more distance than goalkeepers but less than midfielders and forwards.
On average, defenders run approximately 8,000 to 10,000 meters per game.
Their running distance can vary depending on factors such as the style of play, the number of attacking threats from the opposition, and the defensive strategy employed by their team.
3. Midfielders
Midfielders are often considered the engine room of a soccer team.
They are involved in both defensive and offensive aspects of the game, requiring them to cover a significant amount of ground.
Midfielders typically run the most distance during a game, with an average of 10,000 to 13,000 meters.
Their role involves constant movement, including tracking back to support the defense, initiating attacks, and making runs into the opposition’s half.
The running distance of midfielders can vary depending on their specific role, such as defensive midfielders who may cover more ground defensively, or attacking midfielders who may focus on making forward runs.
The distance required of central midfielders in particular translate into it making the position one of the hardest to play in soccer.
4. Forwards
Forwards are primarily responsible for scoring goals and creating goal-scoring opportunities.
Their running distance during a game is generally higher than that of defenders but slightly lower than midfielders.
Forwards often make runs behind the opposition’s defense, which requires bursts of speed and agility.
On average, forwards cover around 9,000 to 11,000 meters per game.
However, it’s important to note that the running distance of forwards can vary significantly depending on their playing style and the tactical approach of their team.
5. Case Study: Lionel Messi
When discussing the running distance of soccer players, it is impossible not to mention Lionel Messi, one of the greatest players of all time.
Messi’s playing style is characterized by his exceptional dribbling skills and ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
Despite being a forward, Messi covers an astonishing amount of ground during a game.
According to a study conducted by the University of Barcelona, Messi runs an average distance of 10.8 kilometers per game.
This includes both high-intensity sprints and constant movement off the ball.
Q&A – How Far Does a Soccer Player Run in a Game? (by Position)
1. How does the running distance of goalkeepers compare to outfield players?
Goalkeepers cover significantly less distance compared to outfield players.
On average, goalkeepers run around 2,000 to 3,000 meters per game.
2. Do defenders run more than goalkeepers?
Yes, defenders generally cover more distance than goalkeepers.
On average, defenders run approximately 8,000 to 10,000 meters per game.
3. Which position runs the most distance during a game?
Midfielders typically run the most distance during a game, with an average of 10,000 to 13,000 meters.
4. How does the running distance of forwards compare to midfielders?
Forwards cover slightly less distance than midfielders.
On average, forwards run around 9,000 to 11,000 meters per game.
5. Are there any players known for covering exceptional distances during a game?
Lionel Messi is known for covering an exceptional amount of ground during a game.
According to a study, Messi runs an average distance of 10.8 kilometers per game.
6. Do different playing styles affect the running distance of players?
Yes, different playing styles can affect the running distance of players.
For example, defensive midfielders may cover more ground defensively, while attacking midfielders may focus on making forward runs.
7. Does the running distance vary based on the style of play?
Yes, the running distance can vary based on the style of play.
Teams that employ a high-pressing style may require their players to cover more ground compared to teams that focus on possession-based play.
8. How does the running distance of professional players compare to amateur players?
Professional players generally cover more distance compared to amateur players due to the higher intensity and physical demands of professional games.
9. Are there any positional requirements for running distance in soccer?
There are no specific positional requirements for running distance in soccer.
However, players in all positions need to maintain a certain level of fitness and endurance to perform at their best.
10. Can running distance be used as a measure of a player’s performance?
Running distance alone cannot be used as a sole measure of a player’s performance.
Other factors such as passing accuracy, goals scored, and defensive contributions should also be considered.
11. How can players improve their running distance?
Players can improve their running distance by incorporating endurance training into their fitness routine.
This can include activities such as long-distance running, interval training, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
12. Does running distance correlate with a player’s overall fitness level?
Running distance can be an indicator of a player’s overall fitness level, but it is not the only factor to consider.
Strength, agility, and technical skills also play a significant role in a player’s overall fitness and performance.
13. Are there any technological advancements used to track running distance in soccer?
Yes, many professional teams use GPS tracking devices to monitor the running distance and other physical metrics of their players during training sessions and games.
14. Can running distance vary based on the position-specific demands of different leagues?
Yes, running distance can vary based on the position-specific demands of different leagues.
Leagues with a more physical style of play may require players to cover more ground compared to leagues with a slower tempo.
15. How does running distance affect player fatigue during a game?
Running distance can contribute to player fatigue during a game, especially if the player is not adequately conditioned.
Fatigue can impact decision-making, speed, and overall performance on the field.
Summary
The running distance of soccer players varies depending on their position on the field.
Goalkeepers cover the least distance, followed by defenders, forwards, and midfielders who generally run the most.
However, it’s important to note that these distances are averages and can vary based on factors such as playing style, tactical approach, and individual player characteristics.
Understanding the running distances of different positions provides valuable insights into the physical demands and fitness requirements of each role.
By considering these factors, players and coaches can tailor their training programs to optimize performance on the field.
