How to Kick a Ball Correctly

There are many ways to kick a ball depending on if you are shooting, passing or punting the ball. However, the mechanics of the body are fairly standard. If you can perfect your body movement, technique and motion, your kicking ability, accuracy and strength are bound to improve. It is important to practice kicking technique and movements to tone your body and to adapt to the motion of kicking a ball. The more you practice, the better you’ll get.

Things You'll Need

  • Soccer or football cleats Soccer ball Football Field or backyard
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the ball on the field so that it’s not moving. Make sure you don’t put the ball in a hole or rough patch. Set the ball in a position you feel comfortable with.

      Use a kicking tee if you are kicking a football. Make sure the laces of the football are directed outward, and not on the side of the ball you plan to kick.

    • 2

      Step away from the ball, about three yards, and concentrate on the part of the ball you want to connect with. Eye contact is important, so keep your eye on the ball.

    • 3

      Plant your non-kicking foot about one foot from the ball, and raise your kicking leg behind you as high as possible. The height of your kicking foot allows you to generate power through the kicking motion.

    • 4

      Point your toes downward and lock the ankle of your kicking leg so your foot will strike the ball at about a 45 degree angle. You want to get underneath the ball and strike it with the laces of your foot.

    • 5

      Bend your non-kicking knee slightly. This will help to make sure you strike the ball with the laces of your foot.

    • 6

      Lean your body inward, towards the ball. Keeping your body tight and low to the ground will increase the power of your kick and ensure the ball does not go very high into the air. The further you lean backwards the higher the ball will travel.

    • 7

      Follow through. Make sure you let your kicking leg follow through the entire shot, even after contact. If you stop your momentum, you lose the power behind your kick.