One of the most important techniques in soccer is knowing how to head the ball. It’s used while defending and while attacking and can be a great asset for any soccer player. However, just like any other technique, the heading is one that requires practice to get right.
There are many ways you can safely practice your heading technique. A lot of athletes also have an aversion to heading as they feel they can get hurt.
However, you’ll notice that with the right technique, you won’t feel any pain!
While heading, you should keep the following in mind:
1. Keep your eyes affixed to the ball and modify your position so you may strike it with your forehead. Striking the ball with the top of the forehead close to the natural hairline as this offers players the best control, assists in power generation, and is the least painful location to contact the ball.
2. During the heading procedure, you should bend your knees, and keep your eyes open, while also closing your lips. Be cognizant of your own and others’ positions on the field. This helps avoid injuries and encourages sound strategic judgment, including where to aim the ball during a clearing effort.
3. Ensure maximum power by balancing with your arms and following through with the header. As players mature, leaping or diving headers become a part of the game, and mastering the fundamental technique will assist them in mastering such components later on.
With these pointers in mind, you’ll be able to safely practice and get better at heading! Good luck!