In the world of soccer, ball-striking is a fundamental technique that every player must master. While top professionals showcase a wide array of ball-striking techniques, they are all built on foundational principles that are often misunderstood. Unfortunately, many of the traditional teachings about ball-striking are myths that have been passed down through generations, leading to suboptimal teaching practices, performance and even injury.
For clarification, we are speaking about ball-striking as a technique in isolation. Ball-striking as a technique can be used in the execution of a decision to shoot or pass; however, in this post we are looking solely at the technique of ball striking. Here we’ll explore 9 common myths about ball-striking in soccer and challenge what we hear as conventional wisdom. Specifically, we are discussing ball-striking with laces.
1. “Foot Placement Changes Depending on the Target”
One common myth is that foot placement changes depending on where you’re aiming i.e. high pass/shot or low pass/shot. In reality, foot placement should remain consistent for optimal balance and accuracy. Overcomplicating this step can lead to inconsistency and a lack of precision.
2. “Jumping Through the Ball onto the Kicking Foot”
Some coaches advocate for a technique where players jump through the ball, landing on their kicking foot well in front of the ball. This approach can lead to instability of the technique and increased risk of injury. Instead, focus on a controlled, balanced movement through the strike without jumping forward.
3. “Point Toe Straight Down to the Ground”
Another myth suggests that pointing the toe straight down increases power. In truth, this creates a higher risk of injury as well as a smaller surface area making contact with the ball, and potential loss of control. A foot position where the inside of the foot is ‘brushing the grass’, allows for better ball control and flexibility in the ball-striking technique.
4. “Lean Over Top of the Ball / Lean Forward”
Leaning over the ball is often recommended to keep shots or passes low, but it typically results in poor posture and reduced power. A balanced posture (shoulders back) with a slight sideways lean is ideal for striking, allowing for a more natural follow-through and much safer posture.
5. “Planting Foot Pointed at Your Target”
While it might seem logical to point your planting foot at your target, top ball strikers tend to open up their non-kicking foot. This stance gives you the flexibility to adjust your shot and generate more power because of the extra pre-stretch of the muscles you create with an open foot position.
6. “Be Balanced on Your Entire Foot”
Being balanced is crucial, but balancing on your entire foot can restrict your movement, creating a pendulum-like leg swing with a very small ‘sweet spot’ of contact at the ball. Instead, focus on leaning to the side so most of your weight goes onto the outside of your heel and down the outside of your foot. Top ball strikers rarely put weight on their toes.
7. “Arms Do Not Matter When Kicking the Ball”
Arms play a critical role in ball striking by providing balance and counterbalance during the kicking motion. Proper arm movement can enhance stability and contribute to a more effective strike as the arm opens up the stretch even further.
8. “Stretch-Reflex Is Not Important”
The stretch-reflex is a key component of efficient ball striking. It involves stretching the muscle to store potential energy, then releasing it as kinetic energy during the ball-strike. Understanding this concept can lead to more effortless and powerful strikes. The bodies muscles are like elastic bands. Effort is required to stretch the muscles but no effort for them to come back together.
9. “Posture Doesn’t Affect Ball Striking”
Good posture is fundamental to successful ball striking. A posture with shoulders back and hips forward creates a stable foundation for many soccer techniques, including ball-striking. Poor posture can lead to inconsistent and inefficient strikes.
By debunking these common myths about ball-striking, you can improve the player’s performance and reduce the risk of injury. Keep an open mind, challenge traditional teachings, and embrace a more modern approach to ball-striking fundamentals.
If you found this post helpful, please share it with other soccer enthusiasts and coaches. We invite you to explore our website for a deeper exploration into ball-striking techniques and principles. And remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to soccer—it’s about finding what works best for you!
