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Step By Step: The First Touch

by Joshua Robinson
for About.com

7 of 7

Practice Makes Perfect

David Beckham works on his touch, taking a ball on the shoulder, with the Los Angeles Galaxy.

Reuters
All you need for the easiest first-touch drill is a wall and any kind of ball (even a tennis ball works).

Throw or kick the ball at the wall from a variety of angles and bring it under control as it bounces back — left foot, right foot, thighs, chest, even shoulders and head. There really is no secret to it. It may sound simple, but it’s the best way to develop those instincts alone.

If you have the luxury of practicing with someone else, the drill doesn’t change much. Your teammate takes the place of the wall and feeds you the ball. Take a good first touch and pass it back.

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