Soccer Home Training: Mastering First Touch and Quick Finishing
During times when regular team practice isn’t possible, it can be challenging to keep soccer training consistent. This home session is designed to develop two of the most vital skills for any soccer player: first touch and rapid finishing. Led by Coach Rhys, the session guides you through practical drills, a skills challenge, and a fitness component—all adaptable for a living room, backyard, or any small indoor space.
Essential Equipment for At-Home Soccer Training
To complete this training session, you will need a few basic items—most of which are everyday household objects:
- One soccer ball (size 4 is ideal, but any size will work)
- Two durable household items or cones in distinct colors (these will be your markers, so pick items that are sturdy and safe)
- A rebound surface such as a wall, couch, or even a willing family member to pass the ball back to you
- Two targets for shooting practice (these could be portable soccer nets, stacked blocks, or opposite ends of a couch)
- A bottle of water to stay hydrated
- Comfortable running shoes
- Sportswear suitable for physical activity
How to Set Up Your Home Training Area
You won’t need much space for this session. A clear, open area measuring about 3 by 3 meters (up to 5 by 5 meters if possible) is sufficient. Arrange your two colored markers at the far end of your training zone, placing them roughly five strides apart and at least three to five steps away from your wall or rebounder and your target zone.
Most of the drills are performed between these markers, facing the wall. Be sure to clear the area of any objects that could break or cause injury before starting.
Instructional Video for Skills and Techniques
For a step-by-step guide, view the embedded instructional video included in this session. The video provides demonstrations of each skill and technique, ensuring proper execution.
You can pause and replay sections as needed while you work through the drills. Progress at your own pace—focus on form and improvement rather than perfection.
First Touch and Quick Finishing Drills Explained
This training session targets two core soccer fundamentals:
– First Touch: This refers to how you control and manipulate the ball immediately after receiving it. Improving this skill helps you keep possession and set up your next move quickly, even under pressure.
– Quick Finishing: Being able to shoot or pass efficiently right after your first touch is a critical attribute for effective attacking play.
The session includes exercises that emulate game-like scenarios—receiving a pass, controlling instantly, and taking a decisive shot or pass toward a target. Practicing these repeatedly will develop muscle memory and confidence for match situations.
Tips for Maximizing Your Individual Training
To make the most out of your home training session, consider the following advice:
- Work at a challenging—but controlled—pace to push your endurance and technique.
- Alternate your dominant and non-dominant feet for both first touch and finishes to build ambidexterity.
- Create personal skills challenges, such as counting consecutive controlled first touches or timing your completion of a drill circuit.
- Stay hydrated and take brief pauses between exercises to maintain form and reduce injury risk.
Expanding Your Soccer Training Routine
If you enjoyed this session and want to continue improving your soccer skills at home, there are several other specialized training routines available to explore. Topics include:
- Ball control and turning
- Passing and receiving fundamentals
- Dribbling techniques and agility drills
- Skill moves to beat defenders
- Advanced ball control, including playing in tight spaces and under pressure
- Finishing and shooting exercises
- Soccer-specific fitness challenges
By alternating between these sessions, you can build a comprehensive at-home training program that targets all the major facets of your game.
Stay Connected and Keep Improving
For more resources on soccer skill development, visit other player education guides or explore additional home training sessions designed by experienced coaches. Continuous practice—even at home—can help you maintain your competitive edge and prepare you for the return of team play.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen advanced skills, these sessions make it possible to continue learning and improving, no matter where you train.
