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Training Tips
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Using your head has various meanings in football. One of the
biggest myths in the game still persists today, namely that players who
frequently head the ball have lower intelligence. Since the 90's it has been
scientifically proven that there is no link between heading and
intelligence. Instead, the scientists concluded that young and untrained
footballers are more prone to injure their head when performing techniques
which they have not yet mastered. Thus, heading the ball with proficiency is
crucial for all players. |
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| How to
head a football |
The first thing that you must understand is that the ball
should be struck with the upper part of your forehead. This part of the
skull will not injure or hurt, because it is comprised of only skin and
thick bone. One of the most difficult obstacles in learning how to head the
ball is overcoming the natural fear which discourages you from propelling
your head straight at a flying object. Don't allow the ball to hit you. You
charge at it!
Young players tend to close their eyes when heading the ball. By doing so,
you can't see where the ball is and you can seriously injure yourself. You
also need to keep your eye on the part of the ball that you want to head.
Hitting it below its equator will cause it to rise while striking the upper
part of the ball produces a downward header.
The force, which you apply to the ball, should not come from your neck
muscles. Bending backward your entire upper body and propelling your head
forward will produce far more power. Before heading the ball, you should
adjust to its flight by taking a succession of short shuffling steps. This
helps you avoid tilting to the side after you have leapt in the air. |
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Different methods of striking the ball |
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Standard header |
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To head the ball with a good amount of power you'll need to
arch back and swing your head forward. When heading in this way, you must
keep your shoulders leveled and perpendicular to your aim. Contact should be
made with the center of the forehead. |
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Diving header |
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In this technique, you must propel your entire body in the
path of the ball. Your arms have to be stretched forward for protection on
landing. |
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Glancing header |
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When executing a glancing header, you must turn your head in
direction of your aim. This motion redirects the oncoming ball. |
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Flick header |
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On flick headers, you are actually making contact with the
back of your head. As you arch backward, you will direct the ball behind
yourself. This technique is useful mainly because of the surprise factor. |
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