1. Home
  2. Sports
  3. World Soccer

Step By Step: The First Touch

From , former About.com Guide

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.

Explore World Soccer

About.com Special Features

Holiday Central

What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >

Introduction to Pilates

Learning Pilates fundamentals can help you get the most out of your exercise regime. More >

  1. Home
  2. Sports
  3. World Soccer
  4. Skills and Tactics
  5. First Touch - Practice

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.