Mastering Ball Control in the Air: A Complete Home Training Guide
If you’re unable to get out to the field but still want to work on your football skills, this home training session is designed to help you develop superior ball control in the air. Guided by Coach Rhys, you’ll progress through a series of targeted exercises, conclude with a skills challenge and boost your overall fitness—all from the comfort of your home.
What You’ll Need for the Session
- Soccer ball (size 4 is ideal, but any type will work)
- Two sturdy household items or cones (to act as stationary markers)
- Water bottle for hydration
- Suitable athletic footwear
- Comfortable sportswear
This minimal list ensures that anyone can get started without the need for specialized gear.
Preparing Your Training Space
Set aside an area approximately 5 steps by 5 steps square, ensuring it’s free of obstructions and safe for movement. Place the two household items or cones just behind you or to your side—they’ll serve as boundaries or reference points. If you have a parent, sibling, or friend available to help, ask them to serve as a partner by standing about 3–5 steps away from you to feed you passes or tosses.
Follow Along: Watch and Learn Ball Control in the Air
We recommend following the video instructions for detailed demonstrations of each exercise. Pause as needed to focus on techniques or repeat drills until you feel comfortable. Take your time with each challenge. Remember, the goal is progress—not perfection.
Session Overview: Air Ball Control Drills and Challenges
This home session puts a spotlight on controlling the ball while it’s in the air—a crucial skill for all positions. Coach Rhys guides you through:
- Warm-up Routine: Gentle movements and stretching to prepare your body for dynamic ball work.
- Ball Control Drills: Practice controlling passes thrown, tossed, or played in the air using your feet, thighs, and chest. Focus on soft touches, cushioning the ball, and directing it where you want.
- Skills Challenge: Put your abilities to the test by seeing how many consecutive touches or successful controls you can achieve without letting the ball touch the ground.
- Fitness Challenge: End your session with a short, high-intensity fitness drill designed to boost your overall athletic performance.
These drills challenge your concentration, footwork, and dexterity—key components for real-game situations.
Tips for Practicing Ball Control in the Air
- Keep your eyes on the ball throughout its flight to anticipate its movement.
- Bend your knees slightly and stay light on your toes for better balance.
- Use different body parts—feet, thighs, chest—to cushion the ball softly.
- Don’t rush; focus on technique before speed.
- Take regular water breaks and listen to your body.
Don’t hesitate to replay sections of the video to refine difficult skills, and celebrate small victories as your control improves.
Track Your Progress and Stay Motivated
For extra motivation, consider recording yourself as you work through the challenges. Watching your progress over time can be a great way to see improvement and stay committed. Invite family members to join in or take turns serving passes for even more fun.
Expand Your Training: More At-Home Football Skills Sessions
Looking to build your entire skill set? There are plenty of additional themed sessions you can try at home:
- Ball Control & Turning
- Passing & Receiving
- Dribbling Techniques
- Advanced Skill Moves
- 1v1 Moves and Player Development Cards
Each session addresses different facets of the game, enabling well-rounded development even outside traditional practice environments.
Get Involved and Keep Improving
Keep pushing your limits by practicing regularly, exploring new drills, and engaging with online resources dedicated to player growth. Check out dedicated player education centers and home training hubs for a constant stream of new ideas and techniques.
Connect and Share Your Experience
Have questions or want to share your journey? Engage with the community via the website’s contact form or through their social platforms for tips, feedback, and new training suggestions. Your improvement inspires others, and each step you take brings you closer to mastering ball control in the air!
