If you're a coach looking to improve your athletes' speed but feeling overwhelmed by all the gear options out there, you're not alone. The good news? You don't need a massive budget to build an effective speed training kit. Whether you're coaching youth football, running a rugby academy, or training a local athletics club, this guide will help you put together the right speed training gear for coaches at any price point.
Let's break it down step by step so you can start running effective speed sessions without breaking the bank.
1. Why Every Coach Needs a Speed Training Kit
Speed is a game-changer in almost every sport. Faster athletes can beat opponents to the ball, create more scoring opportunities, and recover defensively when things go wrong. But here's the thing: speed isn't just about natural talent. It can be trained and improved with the right tools and drills.
Having your own speed training kit means you can:
- Run consistent, structured sessions without relying on shared club equipment
- Progress athletes gradually using the right tools for their level
- Save time by having everything ready to go
- Train anywhere: on pitches, in parks, or even indoors
The best part? You can start small and build your kit over time as your budget allows.
2. Foundation Essentials: Where to Start (Under £50)
If you're working with a tight budget, don't stress. Some of the most effective speed training gear for coaches costs very little. These foundation items will cover 80% of your speed training needs.
Cones and Markers
Why you need them: Cones are the backbone of any speed training programme. Use them to mark sprint distances, set up directional change drills, and create boundaries for reactive agility exercises.
What to look for:
- Bright, visible colours
- Lightweight but stable in wind
- A mix of flat disc cones and taller cones for variety
Budget tip: A set of 50 disc cones typically costs under £15 and will last for years.
Agility Ladder
Why you need it: Agility ladders are brilliant for developing foot speed, coordination, and balance. They're perfect for warm-ups and can be used with athletes of all ages and sports.
What to look for:
- Durable rungs that won't snap
- Adjustable spacing if possible
- A carry bag for easy transport
Budget tip: Basic agility ladders start around £10-15. That's a small investment for a tool you'll use in nearly every session.
Slalom Poles
Why you need them: Slalom poles help athletes practise quick directional changes and close control at speed. They're especially useful for sports like football, rugby, and hockey.
What to look for:
- Flexible poles that won't injure athletes on contact
- A stable base or spike option for different surfaces
3. Core Speed Training Equipment: Level Up Your Sessions (£50–£150)
Once you've nailed the basics, these mid-range additions will take your speed sessions to the next level.
Speed Hurdles
Why you need them: Hurdles help athletes develop explosive acceleration and efficient running mechanics. They're fantastic for teaching proper knee drive and stride length.
What to look for:
- Adjustable heights (15cm to 30cm is ideal for most sports)
- Lightweight but sturdy construction
- Sets of 6-12 for drill variety
Pro tip: Start with lower hurdles for beginners and gradually increase height as technique improves.
Resistance Bands
Why you need them: Resistance bands add challenge to sprint drills by forcing athletes to work harder against resistance. This builds explosive power and strength.
Check out the Kinetic Resistance Leg Band Set for a versatile option that works for individual or partner drills.
What to look for:
- Multiple resistance levels
- Comfortable, secure attachments
- Durable elastic that won't snap mid-drill
Training Cones (Taller Versions)
Why you need them: Taller cones (around 30-40cm) are better for visual markers during high-speed drills. Athletes can see them more easily when running at full pace.
4. Advanced Gear: When Budget Allows (£150+)
Ready to invest a bit more? These advanced tools can seriously enhance your speed training programme.
Speed Parachutes
Why they work: Resistance parachutes create drag during sprints, forcing athletes to generate more power. When the parachute is released, athletes experience an "overspeed" effect that can improve top-end speed.
Best for: Older athletes (14+) with good running mechanics already in place.
Weighted Sleds
Why they work: Pushing or pulling a weighted sled builds explosive power in the legs and core. It's one of the most effective ways to develop acceleration strength.
Budget tip: Start with a basic sled and add weight plates as needed. You don't need the fanciest model to get results.
GPS Trackers
Why they work: GPS trackers let you measure sprint speeds, distances covered, and work rates. This data helps you track progress and adjust training loads.
Reality check: These are a premium investment. Only consider them once your foundation kit is solid and your budget allows.
5. Smart Budget Strategy: How to Prioritise Your Spending
Here's a simple roadmap for building your kit without overspending:
| Phase | Equipment | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | Cones, agility ladder, slalom poles | £30–£50 |
| Phase 2 | Speed hurdles, resistance bands | £50–£80 |
| Phase 3 | Parachutes, weighted sleds | £80–£150+ |
| Phase 4 | GPS trackers, advanced tools | £200+ |
Key takeaway: You can run fantastic speed sessions with just Phase 1 equipment. Don't feel pressured to buy everything at once.
6. Setting Up Your First Speed Training Session
Got your gear? Here's a simple session structure to get started:
- Warm-up (10 mins): Agility ladder drills, light jogging, dynamic stretches
- Speed drills (15-20 mins): Cone sprints (10-20 metres), hurdle runs, slalom pole weaves
- Resistance work (10 mins): Partner resistance band sprints or parachute runs
- Cool-down (5 mins): Light jogging, static stretches
Safety tip: Always ensure athletes are properly warmed up before high-intensity speed work. Cold muscles and explosive sprints don't mix well.
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Buying too much too soon – Start with the basics and add gear as you identify specific needs.
🚫 Ignoring quality – Cheap equipment that breaks after two sessions isn't a bargain. Look for durable, well-reviewed products.
🚫 Skipping progressions – Don't throw advanced tools like weighted sleds at beginners. Build technique first.
🚫 Forgetting portability – If you coach at multiple locations, choose lightweight, easy-to-carry equipment.
8. Ready to Build Your Kit?
Building a complete speed training kit doesn't have to drain your budget. Start with affordable coaching equipment like cones, ladders, and poles. Add hurdles and resistance bands when you're ready. Save the advanced gear for later.
The most important thing? Get started. Even a basic kit will help your athletes get faster, more agile, and more confident on the pitch.
Browse our full range of agility training equipment and team training gear to find everything you need in one place.
Your athletes are counting on you: and now you've got the tools to help them succeed. 💪
