Introduction
Kicking an American football is an essential skill in the game, whether you’re aiming for a field goal, an extra point, or a booming kickoff. A successful kick can mean the difference between winning and losing a game, making it a critical skill for players to master. Whether you’re a novice hoping to improve your kicking technique or an experienced player looking to refine your skills, understanding how to kick an American football is essential.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to kick an American football, breaking it down into simple steps, techniques, and tips to help you become a proficient kicker. We will cover everything from proper form and the importance of timing to mental preparation and common mistakes to avoid. By the end of this blog, you’ll understand how to kick an American football effectively, whether practicing for a local game or preparing for competition.
Understanding The Basics Of Kicking An American Football
Before diving into the step-by-step process of how to kick an American football, it’s essential to grasp the basics of the sport and the role of the kicker. Kicking an American football requires precision, power, and consistency. Kicks are made during several scenarios in the game, including:
- Field Goals: When the offense cannot score a touchdown, a field goal attempt is made to earn points.
- Extra Points: After scoring a touchdown, the team attempts to add a point through an extra-point kick.
- Kickoffs: Kicking the football to the opposing team to begin a play after a score or at the start of the game.
The kicking technique may differ slightly depending on the situation, but the overall mechanics of kicking an American football stay consistent. The goal is to strike the ball with power and accuracy while maintaining good form.
To kick an American football properly, one must have physical skill, technique, and mental focus. Let’s look at the key elements that contribute to a successful kick.
The Importance Of Proper Form In Kicking An American Football
One of the most critical aspects of how to kick an American football is having proper form. Poor form can lead to inaccurate kicks or even injury. There are several essential components to adequate kicking form:
- Approach: When setting up to kick an American football, your approach should be smooth and deliberate. A few steps back and to the side will help you line up the ball and prepare your body for the kick. Practice your steps and make sure they’re consistent for every kick.
- Foot Placement: Focus on your plant foot as you approach the ball. Your non-kicking foot should be placed a few inches beside the ball, pointing in the direction you want the kick to go. This provides stability and allows for better accuracy.
- Strike Zone: The ideal spot to strike the ball is the lower portion of the ball, slightly off-center toward the top. Kicking too high or too low on the ball can cause the kick to be inconsistent. A proper strike gives the ball the necessary lift and spin to go through the goalposts or travel the required distance on a kickoff.
- Body Alignment: Ensure your body remains upright and balanced during the kick. Leaning too far back or forward can affect your accuracy and distance. A slight forward lean during the approach helps your momentum carry through the ball.
How To Kick An American Football: The Step-By-Step Process
Kicking an American football effectively is a combination of proper mechanics and timing. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to kick an American football:
- Position Yourself Correctly
Start by standing a few paces behind the ball. Position your plant foot about 6-8 inches to the side of the ball. Keep your body straight and relaxed. Your kicking foot should be prepared to make contact with the ball, but avoid swinging it prematurely.
- Approach the Ball
Take several steps toward the ball. The exact number of steps varies depending on your preference and kicking style, but typically, the approach involves three or four steps. Keep your steps consistent for each kick to ensure accuracy and timing.
- Plant Your Foot
As you approach the ball, plant your non-kicking foot firmly next to it. This foot should be aimed in the direction you want the ball to travel. The plant foot is crucial for stability and control and should be positioned correctly.
- Swing Your Kicking Leg
Once your plant foot is in place, swing your kicking leg forward. Focus on striking the lower half of the ball with the top part of your foot. A well-timed strike will give the ball both power and accuracy. Ensure to follow through after contact, allowing your leg to move toward your target.
- Follow Through
After making contact with the ball, let your kicking leg naturally follow through in the direction of the kick. A strong follow-through adds distance and helps control the ball’s trajectory. Finishing with your body weight over the ball is essential to ensure the kick is clean.
Mental Focus: How To Kick An American Football Under Pressure
While physical technique is vital when learning how to kick an American football, mental preparation plays an equally important role. Kicking under pressure, such as during a game-winning field goal attempt, requires composure and focus. Here’s how to improve your mental game:
- Visualize Success: Before each kick, visualize the ball sailing through the uprights or reaching its target. Visualization can help calm your nerves and focus your attention on executing the kick properly.
- Stay Calm Under Pressure: Kicking in high-pressure situations, such as with seconds remaining in a tied game, can be nerve-wracking. Practice staying calm by controlling your breathing and focusing on the task.
- Positive Mindset: Negative thoughts can negatively affect your kick. Stay positive and confident in your abilities. Trust your preparation and focus on executing your kick as you’ve practiced.
- Routine: A consistent pre-kick routine can help you stay focused and build confidence. Whether you adjust your cleats, take deep breaths, or visualize the kick, having a routine enables you to remain mentally prepared.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Kicking An American Football
Even seasoned kickers can make mistakes when kicking an American football. Understanding common errors can help you avoid them and improve your performance. Here are some of the most frequent mistakes to watch out for:
- Poor Plant Foot Placement: One of the most common errors is incorrectly positioning your plant foot. If your plant foot is too far from the ball or pointing in the wrong direction, it can throw off your entire kick. Always ensure that your plant foot is positioned correctly before each attempt.
- Miscuing the Ball: Kicking the ball too high or too low can cause inconsistent results. Ensure to strike the ball’s bottom half for optimal lift and distance. Too much of a downward strike can result in the ball going too low, while an upward strike may cause the ball to miss its target.
- Lack of Follow-Through: A weak follow-through can limit the distance and accuracy of your kick. Ensure that your kicking leg continues motion after making contact with the ball. A proper follow-through helps maintain power and direction.
- Overthinking: Overthinking the kick can lead to clarity and better execution. Trust your body and focus on the fundamentals. Remember, confidence and consistency are crucial to becoming a great kicker.
How To Improve Your Kicking Technique
You must consistently practice and refine your technique to become a more effective kicker. Here are some tips for improving your kicking:
- Drill Work: Consistent practice is essential. Focus on drills that improve your plant foot positioning, follow-through, and striking technique. For example, practice kicking from different distances and angles to build confidence in all kicks.
- Strength and Flexibility: Work on strengthening your legs, hips, and core, as these muscle groups are crucial for generating power when kicking an American football. Flexibility exercises will help you maintain good kicking form and avoid injury.
- Use Technology: Many kickers use video analysis to analyze their form and identify areas for improvement. Recording and watching your kicks can help you spot mistakes you may not notice while kicking.
- Work with a Coach: If possible, seek feedback from a coach or mentor. A knowledgeable coach can provide insights into your technique and help you make necessary adjustments to your form.
Equipment For Kicking An American Football
While the most critical aspect of kicking an American football is technique, having the right equipment can also make a difference. Here are some essential pieces of equipment for kickers:
- Football Cleats: Proper cleats provide the necessary traction when kicking the ball. Look for cleats explicitly designed for kickers, as they offer the support and grip needed for optimal performance.
- Kicking Tee: A kicking tee elevates the ball, making it easier to strike. Choose a tee that works best for your kicking style, whether you prefer a traditional or more adjustable version.
- Football: A well-maintained football with the correct inflation is essential for accurate kicks. Ensure the football is in good condition and adequately inflated before each kick.
- Gloves: Some kickers wear gloves to improve their grip and provide added comfort. It’s important to choose gloves that allow for flexibility and control.
Conclusion
Learning how to kick an American football is a skill that requires practice, focus, and mental strength. By following the step-by-step process, refining your form, and avoiding common mistakes, you can become a more
Effective and reliable kicker. Whether kicking field goals, extra points, or performing kickoffs, mastering the art of kicking is essential to your success on the field.
Remember that consistency is critical to kicking an American football. Practice regularly, stay confident, and focus on executing each kick precisely. With dedication and the right mindset, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled kicker who can contribute to your team’s success.