What is Hell Week in football?

"Hell Week" in football refers to a critical, intense training period intended to boost the players' physical conditioning and mental toughness before the season starts. It usually involves rigorous, exhaustive physical training that aims not only for physical conditioning but also for mental resilience, ensuring players can endure stress and maintain performance under fatigue.

This period is crucial because many practices during summer might be optional, so Hell Week helps in getting everyone to the same level of preparedness. It serves as a sort of 'catch-up' for those who may not have been as consistent with their training, bringing every player back to game conditioning speed right before the season kicks off. The underlying focus goes beyond physical strength, highlighting the need for mental stamina that matches or exceeds that of the opponents during actual games 1.