Juggling is the first skill many young players try to master. Kids count their records, challenge friends, and practice in the backyard for hours. But coaches sometimes debate how much juggling actually helps in games. The answer: it helps, as long as it is part of a balanced training plan.
What juggling develops
Touch and feel
Juggling teaches players how the ball reacts to different surfaces and amounts of force. That sensitivity carries over to receiving and controlling the ball.
Coordination and balance
Standing on one leg while controlling the ball with the other builds balance and body control.
Both feet
Juggling with alternating feet naturally trains the weaker foot.
Focus and persistence
Beating a juggling record takes patience and concentration. Many players learn to love practice through juggling.
What juggling does not develop
In a game, the ball is rarely kept in the air for long. Juggling does not directly train:
- Receiving passes on the ground under pressure
- Scanning and decision-making
- Dribbling past defenders
- Passing accuracy
- Game understanding
A player who can juggle 500 times but cannot receive on the half-turn under pressure still has a lot to learn.
How to use juggling well
Keep it to a small part of training
Five to ten minutes in a session is plenty. Use the rest for game-like skills.
Vary the surfaces
Feet, thighs, head, and both sides. Alternate feet rather than using only the strong one.
Add control challenges
- Juggle, then trap the ball dead on the ground.
- Juggle, then volley to a target.
- Juggle while moving forward.
- Juggle with a specific sequence: right foot, left thigh, head.
Use it as a warm-up
Juggling is a great way to start a session, getting touch and focus ready.
Juggling goals by age
- Ages 9 to 10: 20 to 50 consecutive touches with feet
- Ages 11 to 13: 50 to 100, using both feet and thighs
- Ages 14 and up: 100+, with controlled sequences and head touches
These are rough benchmarks. Progress matters more than the number.
The bottom line
Juggling is a useful tool for touch, coordination, and motivation. It is not a substitute for the skills that win games. Combine it with our ball mastery routine, first touch drills, and small-sided games.
Pro Path coaches balance technique and game play in every session at BASE Athletics. Ages 9 to 17. Reserve a spot.
