Training mannequins for football

What is a football training mannequin used for?

A training mannequin replicates the presence of a player or a defensive wall without the need for a real partner. It's mainly used to practice free kicks, dodging, dribbling under visual pressure, and quick decision-making. Whether used alone or in a kit of several units, it allows for recreating match situations for both individual and team training.

What types of mannequins can you find on Foot-Store?

The catalogue offers several formats depending on the intended use on the field.

• Fixed mannequins with a base, to mark a stable reference point during free kick exercises.
• Inflatable mannequins, lighter to transport and store after the session.
• Flexible mannequins, which bend on contact to limit injuries during speed passes.
• Kit with several mannequins, useful for recreating a complete defensive wall.
• Weighted bases and trolleys, designed to stabilize or transport the equipment between sessions.

What brands of training mannequins does Foot-Store offer?

Foot-Store features several brands that specialize in training equipment for clubs.

• Sporti offers fixed, inflatable mannequins, and complete kits with base or transport bag.
• PowerShot is available with free kick mannequins, including in a flexible version, as well as storage trolleys.
• Precision offers training mannequins in various formats, including versions for intensive use.
• Tremblay CT completes the selection with training equipment for clubs.

How to choose a mannequin based on the exercise?

The choice mainly depends on the exercise you are preparing and the number of players involved. For repeated free kick practice, a fixed mannequin with a base offers a stable and reproducible position. To simulate a defensive wall with several players, a kit of three mannequins can cover a realistic goal width. If players need to pass at speed or in contact, a flexible mannequin reduces risks compared to a rigid model. Finally, for frequent movements between the pitch and storage, an inflatable mannequin or a trolley makes transport easier.

What other club equipment pages might interest you?

Mannequins are part of club training equipment, which also includes other useful gear for sessions:

• Bib vests, to distinguish teams during exercises and training matches.
• Ball inflation, including pumps and needles needed for ball maintenance.
• Muscle strengthening, for equipment dedicated to physical preparation.
• Notebooks and boards, useful for preparing and communicating tactical instructions.

You can also check out the entire club equipment to see all available categories.

When to find the best deals on training mannequins?

The prices of club equipment fluctuate with the site's promotional events, so it's best to keep an eye on these sections at the right times. The Black Friday and the holiday season are the primary key times to watch for equipping your club. Next come the winter sales, followed by the French Days in spring and summer sales. Foot-Store centralizes these operations on dedicated pages: the club space sales, the club space deals, as well as the general sales, clearance, deals, and special offers. If you need equipment quickly, the 24h express delivery page allows you to filter available references as fast as possible. To discover the latest models added to the catalogue, the new arrivals page is updated regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size mannequin should you choose for training young players?

For youth categories, a shorter mannequin or just a base is often enough to mark a reference point without replicating an adult's size. Taller mannequins, like those around 180 cm, are more suitable for senior training and simulating a realistic defensive wall. The choice mainly depends on the exercise being worked on rather than the exact age of the players.

Is a weighted mannequin or a base necessary for outdoor use?

Outdoors, a mannequin with a base or a weighted base is more stable in windy conditions or on uneven ground than a model simply placed on the ground. Inflatable mannequins are more sensitive to weather conditions and are often reserved for sheltered or occasional use. The choice thus depends on both storage location and training ground.

How many mannequins should be planned for a free kick session?

A realistic defensive wall generally consists of several aligned mannequins, which explains the presence of kits with three units in the catalogue. For individual dribbling or shooting practice, a single mannequin may be sufficient. So, the number depends on the type of exercise and the number of players present in the session.

Can an inflatable mannequin be used on synthetic turf?

Yes, an inflatable mannequin can be used on synthetic turf as well as on natural grass, provided that the condition of the ground is checked to avoid any risk of puncturing. It remains popular for its lightness and ease of transport between sessions.

What is the difference between a flexible mannequin and a rigid mannequin?

A flexible mannequin bends on contact, which limits risks during speed passes or close shots. A rigid mannequin holds its position more firmly but requires more caution to avoid impacts. The choice depends on the intensity of the exercise and the skill level of the players involved.