How to Grip a Football

Learning how to throw a football with accuracy and a tight spiral can be tough. Practice is the most important part of improving, but it's also extremely important to know how to properly grip the football. This is easier said than done, especially given the football's strange shape and lumpy laces. With a little patience, you can learn how to improve your throw.

Instructions

1. Hold the ball in your non-throwing hand with the laces facing up.

2. Place your throwing hand on the laces of the ball. Your hand should be closer to the end of the ball that's near you.

3. Adjust your fingers so that at least one of them stays on the laces. Try placing your ring finger somewhere near the second lace, and let your other fingers spread out naturally on the ball.

4. Place your thumb opposite the laces on the underside of the ball.

5. Throw the ball once or twice to get an idea of how the grip feels in motion. If it doesn't feel comfortable, try placing your pinky finger on the laces next to your ring finger.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't place your index finger on the nose of the ball. It might feel more comfortable at first, but doing so can really mess up the mechanics of your throw and keep you from creating an effective spiral.

• Grip the ball lightly. A lighter grip makes it easier for you to spin the ball with your fingers and wrist.

• Remember that your grip should feel natural and give you a good feel for the ball.