Private soccer lessons cost $40 to $100 per lesson for 1-on-1 soccer lessons. Private coaches with a nearly full client roster are more in-demand and charge higher rates than new coaches with fewer students. Coaches with years of training experience as well as former college or professional soccer players charge higher rates for their services.

Group soccer lessons are more affordable than private lessons. Small groups are typically limited to 2 to 5 students and cost $35 to $65 per lesson, per student. The small group training offers the same benefits as private training. Students are usually grouped together by skill level and get the added benefit of scrimmaging on the field.

In addition to a soccer coach, players can find lots of other options for soccer lessons including free or low-cost online video soccer lessons, digital soccer training online using an app, or training on their own with an app-enabled smart soccer training ball.

Most private coaches schedule one-hour lessons. Coaches may schedule longer lessons for adults wanting to also work on body conditioning or specialized skills like goalkeeping. Discuss your long-term development goals with your coach to decide the best lesson length and frequency to help you reach your goals.

Most players will agree that private soccer lessons are worth the price when you aren't seeing the progress you want in your game on your own. A private soccer coach can serve as a mentor, helping to improve your skills, confidence, and even your attitude. A good coach gets back to the basics to ensure you have a strong grasp of the fundamentals before moving on to more advanced skills. They also provide the motivation you need to practice, work hard, and improve.

On the other hand, a bad coach can actually cause harm your game. A coach that yells or belittles you during a lesson you are paying for can cause frustration, lack of motivation, and even lead you to hate the game. Be sure to find a positive and experienced coach that helps you reach your soccer goals.

Adult soccer lessons should these fundamental skill drills, regardless of the skill level of the player:

• First touch trapping balls on the ground and in the air for advanced players
• Short passing drills with both feet (5 to 10 yards)
• Striking drills (kicking)
• Footwork drills
• Passing drills (1 and 2 touch)

Soccer lessons should also include a warm-up, body conditioning, and cool-down activities. Most adult soccer trainers work with you to develop a training regimen to help reach your individual goals.

How fast you improve, depends on how much work you put in. Expect to see improvement with each lesson, with considerable improvement in each skill element after 3 months. Obviously, the more frequent your lessons and the more you practice in between, the faster you will improve.

Before you spend money hiring a private trainer, be sure you are selecting one that fits your needs by asking the following questions:

• Does your soccer background include playing in college or professionally?
• When and why did you start teaching private lessons?
• How many students are currently on your training roster?
• What are your lesson rates and schedule availability?
• Do you offer small group lessons if I have a few friends who also want to join?
• How would you describe your coaching style?
• Can we work together to customize my training regimen?

Hiring the right private coach makes investing in lessons worthwhile. Here are some recommendations to help:

• Choose from coaches with years of coaching and playing experience.
• Look for coaches with good online ratings and reviews.
• Ask about their rates and availability.
• Try to meet in person to see if your personalities are a good fit.
• Ask to attend a training session to see the coach in action.
• Ask for references with contact information for current and past clients.