The short answer: Head the ball correctly by attacking it with the flat of your forehead, eyes open and neck firm, generating power from your trunk and timing your jump so you meet the ball at its highest point.
What is the correct heading technique?
Use the flat, hard part of your forehead, never the top of the head. Keep your eyes open and your neck muscles tensed, then drive through the ball using your trunk and a snap of the upper body for power. Attack the ball rather than letting it hit you, which gives control and reduces impact.
How do you time your jump for a header?
Reading the flight of the ball is the hardest part. Set off late and rise as the ball arrives so you meet it at the top of your leap.
- Use a one-footed take-off to gain extra height from a run-up
- Use your arms (legally) for balance and elevation
- Attack the ball; do not wait for it
How can you head the ball safely?
Safety comes from technique, not avoidance. A firm neck and forehead contact spread the load. Young players should limit deliberate heading volume and build neck strength gradually. Defenders and target forwards who win headers are always in demand; advertise your aerial strength when you post a listing.
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