THE MEDIAL CUNEIFORM
EXTERNAL HIP ROTATION
THE MEDIAL CUNEIFORM
Located behind the first metatarsal (which is the long bone behind the big toe), it’s one of the first things a student is taught to use in striking the ball properly on the foot bone. I often refer to this as the knuckle bone on the top of the foot, usually resting under the 4th or 5th eyelet of the shoe. The medial cuneiform is slightly raised and appears as a bump under the skin.
FULL PLANTAR FLEXION
EXTERNAL HIP ROTATION
THE MEDIAL CUNEIFORM
Definition: "When the foot or toes flex downward toward the sole." The image herewith displays ball contact on the medial cuneiform while the foot is locked in full plantar flexion. Failure to have the toe locked down and striking the ball either in front of or behind the medial cuneiform bone will provide a poor hit with bad results.
EXTERNAL HIP ROTATION
EXTERNAL HIP ROTATION
EXTERNAL HIP ROTATION
External hip rotation comes before striking the football on the medial cuneiform with the foot locked in full plantar flexion. This movement is crucial in the downward swing of the shank as it opens the foot much like the face of a golf club. Proper lateral rotation gives a 90-degree wedge-style hit and, provided the toe is in full plantar flexion and the medial cuneiform strikes the seam of the football on the "sweet spot", much of the kicking challenge has been addressed.
JUST A SMALL PIECE OF THE BIGGER PUZZLE
Understanding these formulas can help improve your skill but many other factors are necessary to complete the equation. 5 Star Kicking offers, not only 24+ years of coaching experience, but also the skills of a licensed physical therapist upon request. Physical Therapist Jay Macarella provides a unique combination of services to hep 5 Star Athletes up their game.
Biomechanics Assessments (Flexibility, Range of Motion, Structural Alignment/Joint Mobility) and Functional Movement Screening and 3D mapping help us evaluate an athlete's movement skills. 5 Star Kicking uses these tools to identify areas of strength and/or weakness and, if needed, add correct exercises to enhance performance and reduce injury risk.
5 Star Kicking provides the most scientific approach possible to maximize the best outcomes for our athletes.
