The handball side shot is a demanding skill, requiring precision and finesse to score from a tight angle. But did you know there’s a crucial element that can dramatically boost your shot’s effectiveness? It’s elbow height.
Let’s dive into why elbow height is so important for side shots and explore effective ways to improve it.
Why Does “Elbow Height” Make All the Difference in Side Shots?
Unlike shots from other positions, the side shot is taken from an oblique or even nearly parallel angle to the goal. To beat the goalkeeper (GK) from this challenging spot, you need shot versatility, power, and the ability to deceive the GK with feints. Elbow height plays a fundamental role in all these aspects.
1. Unlocks a Wider Range of Shot Trajectories
When your elbow is high during the shot, it gives you significant freedom in your release point.
- High and Low Options: With a high elbow, you can effectively vary your shot vertically, from slamming the ball downwards to lobbing it over the GK.
- “Scoop” Shots Become Accessible: The deceptive “scoop” shot, a bouncing shot designed to surprise the GK, becomes much more effective when you can apply spin from a high elbow position.
In contrast, a low elbow limits your shot options, making your intentions more predictable for the GK.
2. Adds Power and Improves Shot Consistency
Maintaining a high elbow also directly contributes to shot power.
- Engage Your Entire Body: A high elbow allows you to utilize the power from your shoulder and core more efficiently, translating into a stronger shot that gives the GK less time to react.
- Stable and Accurate: Releasing the ball from a high, fluid arm swing helps stabilize your shot, ensuring the ball stays on your intended trajectory.
If your elbow is low, your arm’s range of motion is restricted, making it harder to generate power and leading to less consistent, often errant, shots.
3. Enhances the Effectiveness of Your Feints
The success of a side shot often hinges on the battle of wits with the GK. Elbow height significantly impacts the effectiveness of your feints.
- Keeps the GK Guessing: When your elbow is high, the GK struggles to anticipate your shot’s trajectory until the very last moment. With multiple shooting options available from a high release, the GK can’t commit their weight, leading to delayed reactions. This effective feinting makes it harder for them to block your shot.
A low elbow, on the other hand, makes your shot more predictable for the GK, allowing them to anticipate your moves and react more quickly.
Practice Methods to Improve Your Elbow Height
So, how can you consistently keep your elbow high during a shot? Here are some effective practice methods:
1. Seated Shooting Drills
By practicing shots while seated, you eliminate the use of your lower body, forcing you to focus entirely on your upper body mechanics, particularly your shoulder and elbow. In this drill, consistently aim to keep your elbow above your shoulder and focus on an effective wrist snap. Using a wall for target practice and recording yourself can be very beneficial for form review.
2. Wall Drills and Video Analysis
Shoot against a wall and record yourself with your smartphone. Watching yourself in action allows you to objectively identify if your elbow is dropping or if your release point isn’t ideal. Comparing your form with professional players can also provide valuable insights.
3. Shoulder Strengthening Exercises
To stabilize your elbow at a high position during a shot, strong shoulder muscles are essential. Incorporate exercises that target your rotator cuff and deltoids. Additionally, a strong core helps maintain balance in the air, further supporting a high elbow position.
4. Consciously Focus on “Elbow Up”
This might be the simplest yet most crucial tip. During every practice session and even in games, consciously remind yourself to keep your “elbow up.” Ask your coach or teammates to observe your shooting form and provide feedback.
Conclusion
In handball, elbow height in a side shot is a game-changer. It’s the key to unlocking diverse shot trajectories, generating power, and effectively deceiving the goalkeeper.
If you’re struggling with your side shot conversion rate, make “elbow height” your new focus in training. You’ll likely see a dramatic improvement in your shooting ability!
May your shots help lead your team to victory!
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