How to Throw a Football Like a Pro

Throwing a football well is one of the harder challenges in the world of sports.

The quarterback is one of the most important players on the football field. Aside from being a leader, a quarterback must be able to throw a football. This requires solid fundamentals, which can be difficult for many people. The irregularly shaped ball and pressure of the spotlight can create many challenges for younger players. With practice and dedication, however, you can throw a football just like a pro in no time.

Things You'll Need

• Football
• Partner

Instructions

Grip

1. Hold the ball firmly with your throwing hand in front of your body. Your fingers should be across the laces of the football.

2. Turn your head downfield and pick a target. Your hips and shoulders should be facing the sideline.

3. Lift your elbows above your shoulders as you stride with your front foot towards your target. Your back foot should be planted on the ground.

   The torque generated by the twisting of the shoulders and hips provides greater velocity and more distance on the throw. It's the difference between throwing the ball with just the strength of your arm and throwing the ball with the strength of your whole body.

4. Begin to shift your weight from your back foot to your front foot. This creates more force so the ball travels faster.

5. Extend your arm in the direction of your target and snap your wrist as the ball leaves your hand to create a tight spiral.

6. Launch the ball towards your target. Your throwing elbow should be as high as possible, so the nose of the football stays pointed upward and allows the ball to travel further.

7. Tuck your lead elbow against your side, and allow your throwing hand to finish by your opposite hip pocket. Tighter motions prevent your body from being exposed to defenders.

Tips & Warnings

• Throwing by yourself is different than throwing in a game. Practicing without defenders helps you get the mechanics down, which come into play in a real game situation.

• Repetition is a leading cause of harm to the rotator cup. It is extremely important that you stretch extensively before you begin throwing.

References

• Throw Like a Pro
• Throw Like a Pro
• Throw a Football