Have you ever thought about what football really means to you? Is it just a hobby you can enjoy with your family and friends? Do you set aside time on Sundays to watch the game with those close to you? Are you a high school player who dreams of making the NFL draft? Whatever it is, this post will help teach you more about playing football.
When selecting which position you will play, consider your strengths. If you’re great at catching the ball and you are a fast runner, then you should fill such a position. If you are large, nimble and strong, then maybe you should be playing defense. If you have a great arm, go for quarterback!
A valuable football fitness training technique is shuttle runs. These help to increase speed and endurance, while also having the added benefit of developing lower body muscles. Shuttle runs increase distance gradually, by reaching specific yard lines, then returning to starting position. The next yard line is a further distance away, and the action is repeated, typically by 10-yard lines.
A great football tip if you’re a runningback or receiver is to perfect the art of using the stiff arm. This play allows you to gain yardage and may even help you escape a defender. All you do is stick your arm out straight.
Take every chance you can to study football footage, but when you can, study footage of yourself. Try and see yourself through an opponent’s eyes. Look for tells or signs of what you are about to do, as well as habits you have that are predictable. Always have a way to keep your opponent guessing.
Don’t be afraid to be intimidating as a football player, because this can really help your game. When opponents think you’re bad and know you’re going to hit them hard, it can change the way they play and cause them to make mistakes. Be known as somebody they really don’t want to face, and you have an advantage before you even show off your real playing ability.
You need to become acclimated to high temperatures over a period of time. Do not try to do a full workout in the first hot day of spring. It can take up to two weeks for your body to adjust to the change in temperature. Take it slow and be safe.
Football training takes a toll on your body if you do not have a consistent recovery plan. This does not mean taking time off from training during the off-season periods. It means allowing your body to recuperate every night and on days off. Get at least eight hours of sleep every night, drink plenty of water (not sodas) and soak in epsom salts three times a week.
Eat a healthy diet when you play football. When your body is fueled correctly it can perform a lot better. Eating healthy proteins, whole grains and fruits and vegetables can help you feel better and play better. Try your best to eat a healthy diet and you’ll find it can enhance your play.
Your speed and quickness is very important if you are a receiver. Creating a very controlled running area is crucial in increasing speed. Do this by putting 2 cones 10 yards apart. Keeping track of your time, sprint quickly from cone to cone. Try beating your time after that. Sprinting in this way will really help boost your takeoff abilities.
Remember that the only thing about you which can’t be changed is how tall you are. You can be wider, faster, stronger and more talented if you practice. Being committed to the sport through proper exercise and diet, along with honing your skills can lead to great things on the field.
A fantastic tip is to make sure you watch the clock and make that an advantage. If you are close to the end of the game, the ball belongs to your team and you are down, letting the clock run out could mean you lose the game.
When kids play football, make sure that they are safe. Due to the violent nature and the number of players, football tends to cause lots of injuries. These can include minor pains and aches, but also injuries like pulled muscles, ankle sprains, broken bones, concussions, and torn ligaments. Many of these can be prevented by having kids wear proper equipment, play by the rules, and use proper techniques.
While becoming a great football player requires commitment and dedication, remember that you need one day off from training per week. You can create distractions if you don’t concentrate on other aspects of your life. Enjoy leisure time with your friends and family to keep a well-balance life.
Do not get overly comfortable in the position that you currently play. Understand what makes each position great so that you can support teammates better. This makes your team stronger and improves your chances for winning.
There will be times that opposing teams play rough or target you. If you think that they are deliberately trying to cause you physical harm, tell your coach. Do not retaliate on the field. It could lead to injuries, cause your team penalties and possibly get you thrown out of the game.
Wear the proper gear at all times. You may think you are just practicing and you don’t need those shoulder pads and helmet, but that can lead to serious issues. This is a physically demanding sport that needs protective gear at all times. Don’t take it for granted, or you could end up with extensive injuries.
If you have a passion for football, keep playing. Learning as much as you can will make you a better player. Continue to practice and implement these tips to make yourself the best player you can be.
