How to Dribble a Soccer Ball

Click here for the best dribbling training ever offered.

Soccer has taken over the world it seems in the past few decades, with more and more people wanting to play. But before one can effectively play this game, some basic skills have to be mastered. Perhaps, the single most important skill is learning to dribble a soccer ball. The game cannot be played at an effective level without dribbling skills, and the best in the world at soccer are known for their ball-handling skills.

Every player on a soccer team, goalie included, must be able to dribble a soccer ball with some degree of accuracy. The ability to dribble past an opposing player is one of the most important skills to learn in order to play the game. While teamwork and passing are certainly important aspects of the game, dribbling is required when a player is in a tight spot, and can be used to score goals if your skills are such that you can dribble a ball well enough to put a goalie out of position.

The key to learning how to dribble is to not look down, and use both of your feet. Granted, this is a skill that takes hard work, and is one that will develop slowly over time. The world's best players can dribble as if the ball is an extension of their feet. The key is to kick the ball gently, at a speed that is comfortable for you. Start at a slow speed, try to maintain a straight line, and build up your speed over time. If you move too slowly, an opposing player will be able to take the ball away from you. Use the inside of your cleats to kick the ball for better control. If you are right-handed, it is likely you will favor your right foot in close quarters; however, it is essential to have some amount of skill in your weaker foot, because at some point you will have to use it.

Once you have mastered dribbling in a straight line, it is time to tackle the subject of dribbling while changing direction. With your head upright, make sure there is room to move in the direction you want to go. Try to keep your opponent turned away from you, and do not expose the ball to him. You will use either the inside or outside of your foot, depending on the location of your opponent. As you continue to dribble, always try to keep your body between your foe and the ball.

Start slowly, and gradually build up speed when learning to dribble. Once this skill is mastered, learn how to turn without exposing the ball, and you will be an asset to any soccer team with which you play.

Click here for the best dribbling training ever offered.