How to Kick a Soccer Ball with Power and Accuracy

Reaching the highest levels of soccer starts with a good kick. Whether you're a striker, midfielder, wingback or goalkeeper, knowing how to kick the soccer ball is fundamental to the game. This Bownet® guide to kicking a soccer ball can be used by first-time players who want to

#TrainLikeAPro or veterans who want to brush up on the basics.

1. The First Touch

Rarely is a soccer ball kicked while sitting motionless on the field. The first contact when you control the ball, or first touch, ultimately determines how good your kick is. Work on trapping, receiving and checking drills to be ready for every kicking situation.

2. It's All About the Eyes

When kicking the ball in soccer, be sure to use your eyes. Before beginning your approach toward the ball, look at where you want to kick it to. Then shift your eyes to the ball - specifically, where on the ball you plan to strike it. When you know where each target is, they're a lot easier to hit.

3. Remember Both Feet

We're not just talking about practicing kicking a soccer ball with both feet; the placement of your non-kicking foot, or plant foot, is huge. This foot should plant about 10-15 centimeters (4-6 inches) directly beside the ball and point in the direction you want to kick. This can compensate for mistakes such as kicking the wrong side of the ball.

4. Lock and Load

Now it's time to look at the kicking foot and leg. It is essential that you lock your ankle. This dramatically improves power and control while also reducing the risk of injury. Push your toes upward to kick with the inside of the foot and down to hit the ball with the top of your foot. Finally, your kicking leg should form a V-shape as you load up to kick.

5. The Arms

Just because you can't touch the ball with your arms doesn't mean they aren't important. Let your arms swing back and forth as you approach the ball, then move both arms forward when you kick. This increases speed, power and balance. Don't overthink the movement, though - if it feels unnatural, it can actually hurt your performance.

6. Body Position

Your upper body also plays a big role. Try to stay as upright as possible while kicking. If you lean too far forward or backward, it can affect foot placement. Also, like the non-kicking foot, you should angle the upper body in the direction you're aiming for better accuracy.

7. Following Through

A good follow-through is a big part of a good kick - and yet it's incredibly simple. The most important part is allowing your body to continue its motion after hitting the ball. Let the leg swing through and move your body in the ball's desired direction.

8. Keep Practicing

It's cliché, but it's true. You want knowing how to kick a soccer ball to be second nature - and the only way to achieve this is to practice. Bownet helps you get those reps in with soccer goals, balls, travel tubes and more portable soccer training equipment that lets #PlayAnywherePlayNow.