Top Ways to Improve Soccer Skills at Home
Soccer is the second-fastest growing sport in America, after Lacrosse. In the 2018-19 sessions alone, about 850,000 boys and girls participated in numerous high school soccer programs, according to figures released by Statista. Gallup reported that it was the third most-watched team sport in the United States, behind only football and basketball, as of 2017.
When a particular sport enjoys such massive popularity, it becomes natural for the people to start playing it a lot more and even consider it as a professional option. And even if professional assistance is not available or affordable at all times, you can improvise your soccer skills in the backyard or at a local sports center. You need to first test your skills and sustained interest in the game , before making a career decision.
The first step is to ensure adequate protection during practice and the actual game, with football & basketball ankle braces. This is the best way to prevent injuries and continue playing for the long term. Ankle support braces fit everyone and offer optimal comfort and stability with steel springs, straps and breathable fabrics, according to experts at Aidfull. Even if you experience strain, sprains or ligament pulls, foot braces can relieve the pain and swelling quickly. Besides, safeguarding yourself against soccer injuries with an ankle brace, consider these following tips to improve your game.
Practice Your Legwork
The most important skill in soccer is being able to control the ball with your feet. Only intense practice can help you improve the agility of your leg movements, so that you can quickly move the ball away from the opposing team or kick it in the desired direction, to avoid it falling into the hands (or feet, in this case) of the other team.
Work on Your Strength at Home
Aim for maximum strength, which is 80-90% 1RM, to improve your agility. This is paramount for soccer, since you need to stay active for 90 minutes straight on the field. While into sprinting, jogging and running, ensure complete protection with foot compression sleeves & feet support. This way, you will be able to prevent cramps and ligament tears. Contoured arch style and stabilizers aid in relieving pain and protecting your ankles from inflammation.
Kick Against the Garden Wall
Stand 2 to 3 feet from the wall and start kicking the ball, alternating your feet each time. Make sure the ball does not bounce more than once while you practice 80 to 100 kicks at a stretch. However, be mindful not to be too aggressive, since it can result in swelling or bruising. If you notice sudden pain, a popping sound, difficult mobility or joint instability, chances are you have sprained your ankle, according to an article on Medical News Today. Besides medication, consider wearing an ankle brace for a sprained ankle, which is lightweight yet super effective.
While upgrading your skills at home, work on your footwork, focus on your speed, and watch as many soccer matches as possible. To avoid any accidents or injuries, consider wearing a tendonitis ankle brace and similar protective gear at all times.