Team sports
American football
Hard-hitting team tactics and short, explosive plays.
- Very hardintensity
- ~560kcal per hour
- Mid costbudget
- Highimpact
Is american football right for you?
Hard-hitting team tactics and short, explosive plays. It is a very hard-intensity, high impact activity that you can do outdoors, in a group. Expect to burn around 560 calories an hour, based on a 70 kg person.
Steep learning curve. Expect to spend up to about £50 a month.
Why try american football
- Builds strength. It works your muscles hard enough to make you stronger over time.
- Improves fitness. It raises your heart rate and builds stamina.
- Sociable. It is an easy way to meet people and have fun.
How to start american football
Contact a local club; many hold a beginner intake before each season.
Get the basics: helmet and pads (clubs lend). Borrow or hire before you buy.
Book a few lessons. Good coaching at the start saves months of frustration.
Tell the coach you are new. A good club will pair you with a careful partner and build contact up slowly.
A 4-week starter plan
| Week | Sessions | Minutes each | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | 45 | Learn the basics and keep every session easy. |
| 2 | 1 | 60 | Repeat last week and add a little time. |
| 3 | 2 | 75 | Add a session or make one a bit harder. |
| 4 | 2 | 90 | Your longest week. Book or plan what comes next. |
This is general guidance, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or injury, check with your GP before you start.
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Not sure american football is for you?
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