Analysis of Punting a football(Biomechanics) - Research Paper Example

Proper punting technique is achieved when a punter is able to kick the ball for as long and as high as he can (Guy & Sang, 2009). There are a number of biomechanical techniques for achieving proper form, which make reference to the way the ball is dropped into the kick, how the punter follows through with his leg motion, and how the punter steps into his kick. These principles are best described and illustrated by means of example, which will follow shortly. The necessity of proper punting technique may be broken into two categories: (a) the safety and health of the punter and (b) the strategic advantage of well-placed punts during a game.

With respect to safety and health, bad form in any sport will lead to injury of the muscles, bones, and joints involved with the physical activity. Quadriceps strains, in particular, are associated with injuries in punters who kick without proper technique (Beatty, McIntosh, Savage, Orchard, & Landeo, 2007). Because of this risk, safety and health are primary concerns for coaches who try to train their players on the methodology of kicking. Secondly, with respect to strategic advantage, punting technique is situational to the conditions of the game (Guy & Sang, 2009).

That is, technique should be adjusted depending on circumstances such as field position, probability of a strong return, probability of a win, and so on. With these realities in mind, there is no perfect (or ideal) form; however, biomechanical principles apply to generally proper form. In addition to proper technique being situational in terms of circumstances within the game, proper technique for punters is also situational based on the comfort and ability levels of the punter himself. An athlete should not strain himself to achieve form and technique of those with considerably more strength and flexibility.

This is particularly important, especially even before the ball is