In the recent Introduction to Coaching course, someone in the chat mentioned that kids should warm up at the start of a session. The instructor challenged that idea, saying he wasn’t sure himself but that we should always know the “why” behind what we do.

While it was a bit surprising to hear that uncertainty from an FA instructor, I completely agree with the principle  you should always understand the reason behind every activity. And in this case, the “why” for a warm-up is both simple and scientifically sound.

At U8 level, a warm-up isn’t about rigid drills or stretching lines- it’s about priming the body and brain for learning and play. Research consistently supports this:

• Neuromuscular activation: Studies show dynamic warm-ups improve coordination, balance, and motor control in children by activating the nervous system (Faigenbaum et al., 2009).

• Injury prevention: FIFA’s 11+ Kids programme reduced lower-limb injuries by up to 50% in players aged 7–13 by including structured, playful warm-ups (Rössler et al., Br J Sports Med, 2018).

• Performance & focus: Dynamic movement before play increases reaction speed, technical control, and decision-making accuracy (Williams & Hodges, J Sports Sci, 2005).

• Cardiovascular readiness: Light progressive activity helps regulate heart rate and oxygen uptake, reducing fatigue and “cold starts” early in sessions (Behm et al., Sports Medicine, 2011).

So yes, young players should warm up but not because the manual says so. It’s because the science supports it, and because it helps kids transition from scattered energy to focused play.

Whether it’s a fun dribbling game, tag with the ball, or short 1v1s, the warm-up should prepare them physically, mentally, and emotionally.