When it comes to know how to kick a soccer ball, there are two things that an expert coach must teach his players – accuracy and power.
Accuracy
It is a wrong assumption that good placement depends solely on striking a precise part of the ball. The truth is other way around. In fact, the more important thing for the players is to drive their kicking foot in the direction of their target.
The coach must also examine the knee of the players’ kicking foot in order to ensure that their ankle is moving straight through the ball without lateral or vertical deviation. Have the players concentrate on its height relative to the floor. The ball must move directly towards the target.
Now, let me give you a specific example. Let me tell you how to produce a low, hard shot. Have the players follow through by moving their entire body forward. Their ankle should not be rising or deviating while driving it through the ball. Do not let them try hard because then the players may end up hopping forward and landing on the kicking foot.
Power
When kicking a soccer ball, power is another important element that can make a huge difference. Do not have the players try to swing harder in order to generate more power. If they do so, they are very much likely to lose control or risk injury.
An expert coach understands that the Power comes from quickness of the execution. Have the players use the elastic quality of the leg muscles. If the players think that way, they will be able to jump much higher. They need to squat and leap rather than leaping up starting from a squatting position.
When they are kicking the ball, they should take the elastic quality of their leg muscles. They should minimize the period of time when their kicking leg is changing direction from retrieval to propulsion.
However, accuracy and power do not come easily. You need to practice that through repetition or without a ball through polymeric exercises. After all, practice makes a man perfect, and if you want to learn How to kick a soccer ball, you must practice the right way.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Andre Botelho is a recognized authority on the subject of how to kick a soccer ball. His web site, Teaching Youth Soccer Training Drills: www.SoccerDrillsTips.com, provides a wealth of informative soccer articles, resources and tips for soccer coaches, parents and players.
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