Using Your Arms in Soccer

Something that really sticks out for me in American youth soccer is that a lot of use look like robots.  Using the arms seems like a small thing, and it is, but it results in much better play.  Using the arms provides balance, helps with shielding, directs power (for instance in a shot), and helps you look more professional.

This is also a very easy technique to implement.  You can learn it in just a few minutes!

Benefits of Using Your Arms

Lets quickly look at the benefits of naturally using the arms for everything you do in soccer.  

1.  Balance

Balance is everything in soccer.  For instance, think about beating a defender  The goal of any moves your perform is to get the defender off-balance so you can accelerate past him/her.  

Using the arms correctly provides better balance and coordination, vital to nearly everything you do in soccer.

See also, Importance of Balance in Soccer

2.  Shielding

When your arms are out athletically, you are in a better starting position to shield the ball.  Shielding the ball allows you to retain possession.

See also, Soccer Shielding Guide

3.  Directs Power

Try using your arms while taking a shot.  After a few tries, you will probably be able to naturally adjust your arms so they are comfortable, and support the momentum of the shot.  

This also works for many thinks besides shots.  If you watch the professionals, you will see that they naturally use there arms for passes, volleys, and set pieces to help direct their momentum.

4.  Professionalism 

Using your arms correctly will make your play seem more professional, therefore increasing your chances of getting seen by coaches, scouts, etc.  If you watch professionals, they know how to use there arms, and so should you.

So also, Looking Professional in Soccer

How to Use Your Arms

You now know the benefits of using your arms, but how do you actually use them?  The great thing is that using the arms is simple.  All you have to do is naturally use them while doing something in soccer, and you have the concept down.  There is no set rules for using your arms; every player uses them differently.

The hard part is using them without thinking about it.  If you have been playing for a while without using your arms, you will have to constantly train yourself to use them before it becomes natural in games.