If you would like to become a better football player, the following article is a great way to learn. Picking up new tips and strategies can be a real asset as you enhance your game. Read this article to better understand the game so you can play better.

A critical element to playing football is weight training. A good workout routine can go a long way towards bettering your skills. Lift heavy enough to increase your strength and work on muscles to get faster. You must master both skills if you wish to achieve a winning status.

If you try a new trick when you are playing football and it turns out well, avoid using it too often. You probably think it’s best to continually use something you know works, but doing so just lets your opponent know, too.

A “stiff arm” can come in very handy. This will help you buy some yards and time or keep a defending player away. Simply straighten and stiffen your arm.

Work ethic is incredibly important. Even though natural ability plays a big role in who plays, football requires its players to have a great work ethic in order to succeed on the field. Coaches prefer hardworking players over talented but lazy ones.

You can help score points by kicking the ball through the goal. If your team is at a fourth down situation, try kicking a field goal. Do this when your team is then close enough to the goal post that you know your kicker is within his effective range. Those three points can add up.

Shuttle runs can build your endurance, stamina and ability to stop quickly. Start at the goal line and run as fast as you can to the 10 yard line. Tap it with your hand. Then go back to the line you started at and tap it as well. For best results, this exercise should be performed daily.

To be great, you need to be physically fit. You need to watch your food intake and eat right. You need to know how your body responds and act accordingly. Any signs of pain or restricted movements need to be reported to your team physician right away.

Football shoulder pads really stand out! Be sure yours fit well before you play in a game. The football pads need to be in excellent shape and should not move around on your shoulders. Being hit with substandard pads can not only break them, but cause injury as well.

Making mistakes during a game isn’t something that anyone looks forward to. The reality is that mistakes happen. You should apply the tips you just read to start improving your skills as a player. You’ll have more confidence and play better, too.