Do substitutes warm up during the game?

Yes. Going from standing still to a fast 9v9 game is not ideal. Use a familiar two-minute routine in a safe area: light movement, side steps, two short accelerations and a few ball contacts if another substitute is available. The coach gives the start signal several minutes before the change. The substitutes already know the sequence, so it does not need another adult explaining it. Keep them visible and away from the assistant referee's line and active play. The purpose is simple: raise temperature, prepare the main movement patterns and focus attention on entering the game. It should not become a hard fitness block. A substitute who is due to enter also needs one clear football message from the coach, not a long tactical briefing while trying to warm up. Use 30 seconds of light movement, 20 seconds of side steps and changes of direction, two controlled accelerations, then 30 to 40 seconds of short passes or touches with a teammate. Finish with one sharper acceleration. Keep it smooth, not exhausting, and start it several minutes before the planned change.