A high-tech training simulator used by Portuguese champions Benfica is set to be introduced into the Middle East in the coming months.
The 360S relies on an LED wall and automated 'ball boy', using fully-customisable computer software to analyse performance and allow players to work on their skills. The Eagles have been using the innovative system since last June, with the state-of-the-art product set to be imminently pitched to other markets.
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360S' indoor equipment means teams can train intensely no matter the weather, with company manager Rui Costa Santos believing it is perfect for the Middle East where temperatures regularly rise above an energy-sapping 30C.
"I think that the Middle East is a very important market for the 360S due to the fact that there is a huge investment in football and the market is in an early stage," he said.
"The 360S will boost this effort and the goals will be achieved faster. Also, I think that because it's an indoor equipment all athletes will have more training sessions regardless of the weather conditions.
"The feedback from Benfica has been very positive. There is an internal competition to use the 360S and each player is always trying to beat their team-mate's results.
"It is very nice to see the interest the 360S raised among the players."
Development of the system has been going on for several years, with an initial draft produced in 2011. Further research was conducted prior to a finished product being readied last year.
Clubs in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar could now be set to benefit from this work.
"The 360S is a simulator that reproduces a real situation or a cognitive process based on next-generation solutions," Santos said. "The 360S was designed to boost its users’ capabilities.
"Extending this technology to the field of football is a natural step which will allow developing and improving the players’ responsiveness, accuracy, speed and 360° vision in a system of individualised training within specific exercises. These exercises are tailored to needs identified by technical experts."
