Have you ever wanted to sit down and watch a game of American football but you do not understand the basics of the game? This is a fascinating sport which is as much about gaining territory as it is about scoring points. For further insight into one of America’s most loved sports, read on.
There is no “I” in football. There are members of that team who support you; why not do the same for them? Avoid hogging the ball because you think you’re a star. Your main objective should be to support your team as well as beating the rival team.
Attack every play like it’s the Superbowl’s fourth and last minute goal. Many players do not play like this and regret it later. By playing your best at all times, you will never have to wish that you had played better.
If you want to do well late game, make sure that interval training is a regular part of your cardio. This is basically alternating high-speed and low-speed laps or timed intervals within your overall running session. Doing this will help you keep up a consistent energy level throughout the whole game, meaning that coach can count on you in the fourth quarter.
Stamina is just as important as strength when it comes to football. Be sure to do some cardiovascular exercise several times weekly to build up stamina. This could involve stair climbing, cycling or running. Ironically, you want this exercise to be as easy as possible so that you can do it longer for more stamina.
Work on exercises that’ll boost your overall speed. During a football game, you’ll be asked to sprint a lot. This will definitely tax your body. You’ll be pushed during every game. To get ready for it, build sprints into practice sessions. It’ll help you perform the best that you can come game time.
Always keep teamwork in mind. It’s sometimes easy to forget, but keep it close to heart. The whole team wins, not just you. Team work, communication and support are all important to making your team successful.
Eat a healthy diet when you play football. When your body is fueled correctly it can perform a lot better. Eating healthy proteins, whole grains and fruits and vegetables can help you feel better and play better. Try your best to eat a healthy diet and you’ll find it can enhance your play.
Five cones placed in a line about five yards apart will create an obstacle course for you to run to increase the flexibility of your hips. Run as quickly as possible through the cones, zigzagging between each one. Lean toward the desired direction, and keep your head up with your eyes looking down the field.
When kids play football, make sure that they are safe. Due to the violent nature and the number of players, football tends to cause lots of injuries. These can include minor pains and aches, but also injuries like pulled muscles, ankle sprains, broken bones, concussions, and torn ligaments. Many of these can be prevented by having kids wear proper equipment, play by the rules, and use proper techniques.
Hit the gym as much as you can. Building muscle will make you stronger, and in that way you can be a more powerful football player. You might even want to consult a personal trainer to find out which exercises are best to bulk you up for your football games.
Never try playing through any sort of pain. If you feel any type of pain in your body, tell your coach and stop playing until you can get it checked out. Playing through pain could cause a minor injury to become a serious one. You could end up sitting out the rest of the season so you did not miss that one game.
Remain consistent with the workout routines you choose to get yourself ready for football. You may read a lot of things about what kind of workouts you should be doing, but once you pick something, stick with it long enough to see results. If you switch back and forth, you won’t progress as quick as you want.
Once a ref whistles that the ball is dead, you have 40 seconds before you have to start a play. If there are less than 40 seconds left in the game, you can literally just stand there until the game clock runs out. If there are more than 40 seconds and you don’t start the play, you will be penalized.
Throwing a football is an important part of playing. Do it the right way by placing your pointer finger on the lace second from the front. Then, bring it back and throw it forward. Keep it aimed at your target.
Always play football by the rules and with good sportsmanship. Be a leader on the field and lead by example. Show your teammates what it means to be a player with integrity. You will be a much more respected player if you play using good sportsmanship and follow the rules.
Talk with your fellow players who are off field about what they are seeing on field. Sometimes your opponent is doing something that you can see in the heat of the moment. A fresh set of eyes is needed, especially from a different vantage point. Even if these teammates aren’t currently on the field, they can provide some great intelligence.
When you are carrying the football, it is important to make sure you don’t fumble the ball when you are tackled. No matter what arm is cradling the ball, bring your other arm in to hold the ball with both hands. You will also be less likely to fumble when you brace yourself for the tackle.
Now that you have read this article you should have a better idea of how the game of American football is played and what each team is striving to do. Next time a game is on, take the time to sit down and watch. You may be pleasantly surprised at how much you enjoy it.
