Juggling a soccer ball can be a bit of a challenge, but don’t let that discourage you.
Even some professional soccer players struggle with juggling, and if you can manage to keep those balls soaring for a mere 10 tosses, you might as well consider yourself a juggling pro.
Juggling requires the development of specific muscle groups in the foot, calves, and thigh. It also involves unnatural movements and requires overcoming the forces of gravity and balance, making it a greater challenge than it appears.
Juggling takes time and patience, so don’t expect to nail it overnight. Dedicate 10 minutes each day to practicing for a year and you’ll be amazed at the improvement.
How to juggle a soccer ball properly?
Selecting the right size soccer ball is important for optimal play.
A suitable ball size should be chosen based on the player’s age range. Beginners may find it easier to control a smaller, lighter size 3 or 4 ball.
Practicing in a flat, open area is also crucial for successful juggling.
This allows for a smooth roll without tripping or losing balance. When starting, players should identify their dominant foot and practice striking the ball with it.
As skills progress, players can focus on juggling with their feet, then adding their knees and thighs for a more advanced workout.
With continued practice and control, players can improve their juggling skills and increase the height of their kicks.
What is the best posture for good ball control?
To improve juggling a soccer ball, focus on three main aspects: position, balance, and muscles. Stand on an even surface with your feet slightly apart and your head facing down.
Keep your hands open and move your arms to control your back muscles.
To build strength, start by juggling with basic steps such as curling your foot to catch the ball on the laces and kicking the ball up but not higher than your head.
To practice accuracy, try the kick-up and catch drill where you drop the ball to your foot and kick it back up towards your hands. As you practice, your balance and muscle strength will improve.
Along with that, it is important to start with your best foot and only use one foot until you are comfortable juggling.
As you gain more control and accuracy, you can then progress to using both feet.
Exercises such as standing on one leg and hopping can also help build the muscles needed for juggling.
Remember, juggling takes time and patience, so be persistent and consistent in your practice. With each kick-up and catch, you’ll get closer to achieving the goal of juggling a soccer ball with ease.
What are some tips on juggling a soccer ball?
When you’re getting started with juggling a soccer ball, get into a light and ready position with your knees slightly bent, head leaning forward, and feet shoulder-width apart.
Your focus should be on quick movement and balance.
Start by simply dropping the ball from your hands and kicking it upward towards your chest height. Keep repeating this motion, and add backspin to keep the ball close to your body.
To improve, alternate between kicking with each foot and use different parts of your body to control the ball. The goal is to establish a rhythm and make juggling feel effortless.
How does juggling a soccer ball help?
Juggling can be a great way to improve your soccer skills by enhancing the connection between your body and the ball.
By juggling regularly, you’ll develop better control, touch, agility, awareness, and composure on the field.
Not to mention, practicing with both feet will help you bring down the ball with ease, even if you didn’t know you had it in you before.
Conclusion
Start slow with single juggling and gradually work your way up to juggling multiple balls and using different parts of your body.
It’s important to always have control and avoid kicking the ball too high, unless you’re trying to make it more challenging.
However, with continued practice, the benefits can be substantial. Improving ball control and awareness on the field are just two of the outcomes of developing the ability to juggle.
Spending just 5 or 10 minutes a day juggling can make a big difference in your game. Every bit counts, so give it a try for a week and you’ll be ready to impress in your next game.