Al Hilal’s training ‘umbrellas’ have a very specific purpose in Austria

Al Hilal players have been using resistance parachutes during running drills at their training camp in Austria, with the equipment designed to improve explosive power, acceleration and top speed rather than to protect them from the sun.

The Saudi club, managed by Italian coach Simone Inzaghi, are continuing their preparations for the 2026-27 football season at their overseas training base.

Al Hilal’s official account on X published photographs from Saturday morning’s session, just days before the camp is due to conclude. Several of the images attracted particular attention from supporters because they showed players attaching small parachute-like devices to their bodies as they ran.

The equipment is commonly known as a resistance parachute. It is fastened to each player and opens as they move, collecting air and creating additional resistance. Players must then work harder to maintain their running speed, increasing the physical demands of the exercise.

Such drills are intended to help footballers improve their acceleration and explosive strength. They can also contribute to better maximum speed, stronger muscles in the legs and thighs, and improvements in running technique.

Coaches often favour resistance parachutes over traditional weights for this type of work because the level of resistance changes naturally according to the player’s speed. As a player accelerates, the parachute fills with more air, automatically increasing the force pulling against them.

That means the device can operate as a form of responsive training equipment, adjusting to the athlete’s movement without requiring continuous intervention from another member of the coaching staff.

The unusual images emerged as Al Hilal approach the final match of their pre-season camp. The club are due to play Al Ahli on Monday in their fourth and final friendly in Austria, as preparations continue for the new campaign.

Al Hilal have played three matches so far during the camp, winning two of them. They began with a 2-1 victory over Austrian side Sturm Graz before beating South African club Mamelodi Sundowns 2-0.

Their only defeat came in the most recent fixture, when they were beaten 2-0 by Mouloudia of Algiers.

The meeting with Al Ahli will provide Inzaghi with one final opportunity to assess his squad and the players’ physical condition before the team’s preparations move towards the start of the 2026-27 season.