Techniques to Kick a Soccer Ball Far
You do not need the expertise of David Beckham to kick a soccer ball far. However, you do need to train intensively, focusing on the techniques that maximize your kicking power. Executing powerful kicks demands the participation of your full body, not just your legs and feet, and also requires mental commitment.
Proper Placement
Proper placement of the body, legs and feet can make for a powerful kick, according to the Expert Football website. Set your supporting foot in line with the soccer ball to keep the ball low and increase its distance. You should lean your upper body forward as you kick to deliver more force to the ball. Conversely, if you want the ball to go higher in the air, lean your upper body back as you kick. After making contact with the ball, follow through with your kick, using a sweeping motion. Kick the soccer ball with the top of your foot or with your instep, rather than your toe, which has a smaller surface area.
Visulization
The Soccer Training Guide quotes soccer star Pele, who said, "Soccer is about 90 percent thinking and 10 percent running." The same maxim applies to soccer kicks. Training your mind can make for more powerful and more accurate kicking. When you are away from the field, write down a specific goal regarding your kicking. Then, brainstorm the simple steps it takes to achieve that goal. Visualize yourself going through these steps successfully. Mentally review these movements until they come to you automatically. While you play, envision your placement and your kick to help you kick the soccer ball farther.
Kick Drills
The Tiburon Peninsula Soccer Club lists a variety of drills for soccer players to improve strength, accuracy and overall performance. Begin by having a coach or another player examine your stance to make sure you hold your body correctly. You can practice distance kicking by standing 20 to 50 feet away from another player and kicking to that player. Practice kicking soccer balls, both moving and still. Kicking moving balls helps soccer players capitalize on the ball's momentum and can result in kicks that go a greater distance. Kick balls from different angles and note which kicks go farther down the field. For an additional challenge, try kicking with your nondominant leg or practice kicks under defensive pressure from other players.