7 Different Types Of Kicks In Soccer – Prominent Shots To Master

Soccer players require a wide range of kicking skills to be successful on the field. While some kicks are relatively simple to master, others require more technique and practice to perfect. In this article, we will introduce you to some of the most important types of kicks in soccer that can be the difference between winning and losing a match.

The beauty of soccer lies in the dynamic movement of the ball across the field. The speed and versatility of the ball is due to the various types of kicks that players employ. From the stunning bicycle kick to the simple yet effective instep kick, there is a kick for every situation. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just starting to learn the game, mastering these different kicks will give you an edge on the field.

Learn The 7 Different Types of Kicks in Soccer To Advance Your Football Skills

1: Push Kick

The Push Kick is the most fundamental type of kick in soccer. It’s an easy technique that even beginner players can learn with practice. Here’s how you can master the Push Kick.

Despite its simplicity, the Push Kick is a crucial component of effective passing in soccer. In fact, it is estimated that up to 70% of passes in a soccer game are executed using this kick.

The Push Kick is also known as the In-Side-Of-The-Foot-Kick. This technique involves using the inside of the foot, like a golf putter, to push the ball forward. To increase accuracy, the ball should be contacted at its centerline with the inside of the kicking foot held perpendicular to the plant foot

Mechanics Of Push Kick

The execution of the push kick in soccer is simple. To perform this type of kick, you must use the inside of your foot. Your arms should be extended and not leaning back as you make contact with the ball. Instead, your body should be aligned with the ball when using the push kick technique. This ensures maximum accuracy and control over the ball.

2: The Laces Kick – A Key Technique for Fullback Soccer Players

The laces kick is one of the most well-known techniques in soccer and is essential for a fullback player. While it may appear simple, executing it requires hours of practice to achieve accuracy. Despite its challenges, mastering the laces kick can lead to some of the most powerful and precise kicks on the field.

The Mechanics Of Laces Kick

The Laces Kick requires a great deal of practice and mastery to execute properly. The key to a successful Laces Kick is ensuring that the laces of the boot make contact with the ball. It is important to lean back and shift your weight to the opposite side of the ball, with your hands in a running position, in order to increase the accuracy of the kick. Remember, even the slightest mistake can reduce the accuracy percentage, so it is essential to continually practice and hone your technique.

3: Instep Kick.

The Instep kick is a crucial shot in soccer that is used to pass the ball over a significant distance on the field. This type of kick requires a significant amount of power and precision to make long passes or execute effective free kicks.

How to Set up Instep kick?

To set up an instep kick, position your non-kicking foot beside the ball.

Then, swing your kicking foot towards the ball with locked ankles and strike the ball with the front or laces of your foot.

Locking your ankles while kicking helps to prevent injury and ensures a proper kick or shot.

If you aim to fully develop your soccer skills, learning the instep kick should not be overlooked

4: Back Heel Kick.

Back Heel Kick: A Stylish Type of football kicks

As a soccer player, mastering different types of kicks is essential to becoming a complete player. The back heel kick is one such technique that adds style and finesse to your game. While it may be challenging to master, with consistent practice, you can develop this skill and make it a part of your game.

In a match scenario, this kick can prove to be extremely effective, especially when your opponent is chasing you. The back heel kick allows for accurate passing and can also throw off your opponent’s defense.

Learn the steps to perfecting this stylish soccer technique by reading further.

How to perform Back Heel Kick?

1. Position your supporting foot beside the ball, closest to you.
2. Keep your ankles locked while pointing your toe upward.
3. Strike the ball with the firm part of your heel, aiming for the center of the ball and avoiding contact with the studs. Use your knee to generate power.
4. When passing the ball to a teammate, align your back towards their position.

Perfecting these four straightforward steps can elevate your kicking abilities to new heights. Dedicated practice and repetition will aid in honing your skills and establishing you as a standout player on your team.

5: Bicycle Kick.

As a beginner, mastering the Bicycle Kick can be a spectacular addition to your repertoire on the field. This acrobatic move involves propelling your body backwards and striking the ball in the air by first raising your supporting leg and then your kicking leg.

To avoid injury, it is recommended to practice this skill on a soft surface such as a thick layer of foam when learning for the first time.

How to Perform Bicycle Kick?

1. Begin by using your foot to flick the ball upward in front of you.
2. If flicking the ball proves challenging, you can lift it with your hands to a height of about one meter in front of your head.
3. As the ball falls, take a step forward and simultaneously leap backward, striking the ball in the air in the opposite direction.
4. To reduce the risk of injury, twist your body and use one arm to assist in landing

Remember, if the ball is too far away from you, it will go up when kicked.

6: Free Kick.

A free kick is a privilege awarded to a player when the opposing team commits a foul. During a free kick, the player taking the kick must place the ball at the exact location where the foul took place. There are two distinct methods for taking a free kick, known as a direct free-kick and an indirect free-kick.

A free kick presents an opportunity for a team to score a goal in crucial moments, particularly for a team that is behind. Teams often designate a specialist kicker for this role and many teams have produced renowned free-kick takers, such as Juninho Pernambucan, Victor Legrottaglie, Pele, Ronaldinho, Ronald Koeman, Zico, and others.

7: Goal Kick.

what is a goal kick? A goal kick is when the ball is kicked by an attacking player and goes beyond the goal line, the defending team is awarded a goal kick. This is an opportunity for the defending team to restart play and regain possession of the ball

Final Words

We hope you have gained new insights into the various types of kicks in soccer utilized and how they can be leveraged to enhance your performance. It’s evident that ball-handling skills alone do not define a player’s success. It is the combination of balance, coordination, and mastery of footwork that enables these athletes to maintain control, both on the ground and in the air.

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