Throwing a football poses a problem for many people because of the ball's size and unique shape. But with a little practice, you can throw like a pro. More or less.
Steps:
1. Grip the football by interlacing your fingers between the football's laces and seams.
2. Protect the ball by cradling it with two hands, and hold it just under your chin as you step back to throw.
3. Cock your throwing arm back with your elbow bent.
4. Extend your free arm in front of you for balance; point the arm and hand at your target.
5. Keep your shoulders level for a short pass (10 yards or less); dip the shoulder of your throwing arm for longer distances.
6. Snap your arm forward and follow through with your shoulders and hips as your weight shifts to your front foot.
7. Release the ball when your arm is slightly above your head and out to the side.
8. Add velocity and spiral to the ball by flicking your wrist and fingers just as you release it.
9. Finish with your index finger pointing forward and down, and with your palm facing the ground. Tips:
Move your hand forward, if your hands are large enough, and hold the ball so that your pinkie finger is toward the front of the ball. Most NFL quarterbacks with big hands feel that holding the ball this way gives them more control and a tighter spiral.
Finish on your front foot. Unless you have a cannon for an arm, finishing when falling back will cause the ball to sail high in the air and beg to be intercepted.
======= The keys to throwing a perfect spiral every time are: Your hand positioning, your release, and your timing.
Hold the ball with your ring-finger just in front of the last lace on the football, leave an empty space, and place your pinky finger between the next two laces.
Your non-dominant hand should accompany your dominant hand on the ball as you raise it to throw, but you should drop it away from the ball and let it swing out away from your body as you twist your torso to throw.
Squeeze the ball hard just before you throw it, and then flick your wrist downward as you let go. This will ensure a tight spiral every time.
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