Millions of us play five or six-a-side football every week. Up and down the country, post work, the floodlights come on, we lace up our boots and play the beautiful game in perhaps, in some cases, a not-so-beautiful way. But it’s all about getting out there and having fun.
For many of us, a post-match pint with friends follows and that social aspect is a huge part of it in itself. However, have you ever thought about what alcohol might be doing to your game?
While being good isn’t the be-all and end-all of playing six-a-side, having your performance inadvertently hampered isn’t great either, and lots of people find that giving up, or cutting down on the hard stuff, can really improve their performance.
Naturally, some people may need help going through alcohol detoxification and need support, which is an altogether different issue and getting help is vital, but why not consider watching what you drink? You’ll reap the rewards…
Improved Fitness and Stamina
Six-a-side demands repeated bursts of high-intensity running with very little rest. Alcohol, even in moderate amounts, interferes with hydration, sleep quality and muscle recovery. Turning up slightly dehydrated or under-recovered can leave your legs feeling heavy within minutes. By going sober, your body is better fuelled and properly hydrated, allowing you to maintain energy levels throughout the match. The result? More sprints, quicker recovery between runs and the stamina to stay sharp right until the final whistle.
Faster Reactions and Better Decision-Making
In six-a-side, the game moves quickly. You often have less than a second to control the ball, spot a pass or close down an opponent. Alcohol dulls reaction times and impairs judgement, sometimes long after the last drink. Playing sober means your mind is clearer and more alert, helping you read the game better. You’ll be quicker to intercept passes, make smarter decisions under pressure and react instinctively rather than hesitating.
Better Sleep Equals Better Performances
Many players underestimate the importance of sleep in performance. Alcohol disrupts deep sleep, leaving you feeling tired even after a full night in bed. Poor sleep affects coordination, concentration and motivation, all vital in a small-sided game. Going sober improves sleep quality, meaning you turn up to matches feeling refreshed and focused. Over time, consistent good sleep translates into better performances and fewer off-nights where you feel flat or sluggish.
Reduced Risk of Injury
Six-a-side pitches are often hard, compact surfaces where sharp turns and quick changes of direction are constant. Alcohol increases inflammation and slows muscle repair, making you more prone to strains and niggles. A sober lifestyle supports better recovery between games and helps keep muscles supple and strong. Improved balance and coordination also reduce the likelihood of awkward falls or mistimed tackles. Fewer injuries mean more consistent availability, and consistency is key to improving your game.
Stronger Mental Edge and Commitment
Finally, going sober often brings a shift in mindset. You become more disciplined, more committed and more in tune with your body. That mental edge shows on the pitch. You’re more likely to warm up properly, track back when needed and push yourself during tough moments. Teammates notice reliability and effort, and confidence grows as performances improve. Six-a-side rewards players who stay switched on and give everything, and sobriety helps you do exactly that.
