"Understanding that most of the game has nothing to do with kicking a ball, is one step closer to understanding the game"            - From an Umbro ad.  

BAD GIRL ! ! !

The question is asked' " I want to improve in soccer as much as possible over the winter. what are some things i can do everyday alone in my basement? also, besides drills, what muscle groups should i work out? crunches, pushups..."

Answer

You should work on agility, all positions require good agility and quickness. If you are a defender you will need it to win a ball and if you play mid or forward explosion the change of direction is key to beating someone. You should also work on juggling which helps your touches and you should definitely pass against a wall to help you with your passing. Make sure to also stretch alot. To help you with your dribble and touches also do a bell on the ball (place the ball between your feet and tap it from one foot to the other and if you want to make it even more difficult try to do so without looking at the ball). You could also do stationary moves such as overs, unders, sole behind drags, etc. If you have enough room you can set up cones and dribble around them. When it comes to what muscle groups you should work on I would suggest doing wall sits and squats. Pushups and sit ups also usually help. You may also want to do v ups which is like sit ups but you bring both you feet and your arms up and make them touch then bring them down without touching the ground. You also may want to try leg lifts which is keeping your body completely straight on the ground but lifting your legs and bringing them down without even having them touch the ground. Good luck!!!