In football, bend refers to a type of skill attributed to the players when striking the ball in a curve manner. It is possible when the player strikes the ball the player was able to apply a spinning technique resulting in the ball bending, in mid-air. A player who is quite good at this skill is often the designated free-kick taker.
How to Bend it Like Beckham
You probably have heard the term “bend it like Beckham.” This shooting skill was popularized by David Beckham, an English player that can bend the ball in mid-air. As a result, he is considered as one of the greatest free-kick takers in football.If you wish to learn and improve your skills in bending a football, there are certain techniques you need to develop. There are three parts you need to practice to curve the ball.
• Lining up your kick
Approach the ball at a 90 degrees angle and plant your non-kicking foot away from the ball. Make sure it is 12 to 16 inches off. When preparing for kick-off, set up yourself slightly off-center from the same place as you would kick the ball straight. If you are a right-footed kicker, approach the ball from your left to right, and if you are left-footed, from your right to left. As you approach the ball, make a room that is enough for three strides before kicking.
• Striking the ball
Use the inside of your foot when striking the ball. Make the ball spin in mid-air for your ball to bend. It is achievable when the force applied to one side is bigger than the other. When you kick the ball, aim at the bottom and outside the area of the ball. Kick the ball on the right side if you wish the ball to curve left. If you prefer the ball to bend to the left side, then kick the ball in the right area.
• Using enough force
Use the right amount of force when kicking the ball. To successfully bend the ball, it depends on how hard you kick the ball. Where you strike the ball also matters. Practice different strengths when kicking the ball to see which technique gives you the most spin.