How to Be a Good Kicker/Punter

Two Methods:For Kickers For Punters Community Q&A

Kickers and Punters are sometimes overlooked, but they are a very important part of a team. Kicking or Punting doesn't have to be very hard, if you follow these tips.

Method 1
For Kickers

1
Always work on leg strength. You can do this by running or other leg related exercises.
2
Kick the underside of the ball. That way, you will get more air under it and it will go farther.
3
Try not to always boot it out of the end zone. It will make it seem you like you don't know your own strength. Instead, try to kick it inside the ten, that way you have made a good kick and it forces the opponent to run out of their deep territory.
4
Try to kick the center of the ball for field goal. If you kick to the right or left it will slice that way. Also, be aware of the wind direction and aim accordingly.

Method 2
For Punters

1
You need have leg strength like a kicker. However, you also need to have control of that strength.
2
When you're waiting for the snap, have your hands ready. When the center hikes it back to you, you need to be able to get a good grip, otherwise, you might fumble.
3
Once you've caught it, toss it just outside of your shoe (making sure it stays above your shoe). Also, make sure it is facing vertically (like in a kickoff).
4
Aim for the center of the ball (or if you are close to a sideline, aim away from the sideline.)
5
After you've kicked it, advance forward. You will probably get pushed down by a defender. That's ok, it usually happens like that.

Community Q&A

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How do I stop the ball from going straight?

wikiHow Contributor

It often helps if you turn your body in the direction you want to kick it.

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Unanswered Questions

I'm trying out for our freshman team. What exercises build strength in my lower half. Also is it true that your core is very important ?

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Tips

Keep your ankle locked out, back straight. Work on flexibility and consistency, different drills and control of power. Make sure to watch the ball and how you strike it, not the surroundings.
Practice kicking and punting in an open space, like a field or big backyard.
Practice daily. This way, you will keep up your stamina and build skills. Make sure to practice for a decent amount of time, too.

Warnings

Make sure you have strong feet. If your feet aren't strong enough to continuously punt or kick a football, don't try. (You may get a stress fracture.)
Always wear tennis shoes or special kicking shoes. If you use sandals or loose shoes you could break your foot or toes.
Don't over practice. You will exhaust yourself.