Watch any amateur match: most players almost always move the ball onto their strong foot before they shoot or cross. That costs time, and the defenders know exactly what's coming. A two-footed player, on the other hand, always has two options. That makes them far more dangerous.
Why the weak foot is so weak
Most people have a dominant foot, just as they have a dominant hand. As children we already use this foot more often, it becomes more skilful as a result, and so we use it even more. It's a cycle that leaves many adults barely able to play a clean pass with their weaker foot. The good news: this gap isn't set in stone - it's mainly a question of practice.
The advantages of two-footed players
- Saving time: If you don't have to shift the ball onto your strong foot first, you can shoot straight away.
- Unpredictability: Defenders can't simply block one side.
- More chances to finish: With volleys and first-time finishes in particular, the ball often arrives on the "wrong" foot. If you can still finish, you'll take more of your chances.
- Versatility: Two-footed players can be used in more positions.
How to train your weak foot
1. Start small. Begin with simple passes against a wall. Ten minutes a day is enough to make noticeable progress within a few weeks.
2. Build it in deliberately. Set yourself the goal of playing every second pass in training with your weak foot. At first this costs accuracy, but that's exactly how you learn.
3. Technique before power. A shot with your weak foot needs to be clean first, not hard. Focus on a firm ankle and the right point of contact. The power will come with time.
4. Volleys with both feet. The volley is the ultimate test for the weak foot, because timing and point of contact have to be perfect. Start with balls sitting still at a low height and build up gradually.
5. Measure your progress. Every two weeks, note down how many of ten shots with your weak foot are on target. You'll be surprised how quickly the number improves.
How long does it take?
That depends on your age and how much you train. Children learn particularly quickly because their bodies are still very adaptable. Adults need more patience, but can also make great progress. If you practise regularly, you'll usually notice a clear improvement after six to eight weeks. Your weak foot may never be perfect, but even a "decent" weak foot will make you a much better player.
A tip for coaches
In youth football in particular, it's worth developing the weak foot through play. Small-sided games in which goals scored with the weak foot count double are great for motivation. It's important not to punish mistakes. Anyone who takes a risk with their weak foot should be praised for it, even if the ball goes wide.
Targeted practice with the VOLLEYCHAMP®
The big advantage of a stationary ball: you can concentrate fully on your weak foot without an inaccurate pass ruining everything. With the VOLLEYCHAMP®, you place the ball at a height of 10, 20 or 30 cm and work step by step on a clean volley with your left or right foot. Lots of repetitions under the same conditions are exactly what the weak foot needs.
So: strong foot, take a break - weak foot, get to work!
