How to Head a Soccer Ball

Heading (hitting a soccer ball with your head) allows you to gain possession of the ball, pass, set up an attack, score goals and defensively clear the ball from the goal area.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Arch your back as the ball approaches, with your chin inward, neck firm and legs bent. Keep your arms out to your sides for balance and to fend off defenders.
2. Spread your feet apart, wider than shoulder width. Keep both feet on the ground (unless you need to jump to reach the ball).
3. Snap your upper body toward the ball from the waist. Drive your head and neck forward as you make contact. Keep your head and neck moving together instead of holding your neck still while your head moves.
4. Make contact with the ball squarely with your forehead. Keep your eyes open and on the ball, and keep your mouth closed. Avoid making contact with the top of your head.
5. Direct the ball down by making contact with your head slightly closer to the top of the ball.
6. Make contact slightly lower on the ball to send it upward.
7. Follow through by continuing to drive your head forward. The strength of the header comes from the waist.

Tips & Warnings

• If you need to jump, make contact at the highest point of your jump.
• When heading the ball to score a goal, direct the ball down to make it harder for the goalkeeper to save.
• To clear the ball from your own goal area, direct the ball up and out.
• Incorrect heading can lead to neck injury. Beginners should go slowly. Practice with a light ball, such as a beach ball or soft volleyball, and gradually move on to a regulation soccer ball.