Mastering Indoor Soccer – Follow These Tips

For a long time, one of the world's most popular sports – soccer, could not be played year-round in some placed due to the frigid cold or extreme rain among other weather conditions. Thankfully, the sport was switched up and taken indoors so that everyone's chances of becoming a legendary soccer player were possible.

Indoor soccer is much like outdoor, but of course with some rule changes and attire differences. The "scaled-back" version of outdoor has some hints of ice hockey rules, and is very exciting for anyone who's never experienced a game.

Major Difference

The biggest difference is use of the walls. Indoor soccer is played in an auditorium setting, basketball courts or indoor arena surrounded by Plexiglas or other similar barriers. Players are encouraged to use the walls in play, thought it can still go out of bounds if kicked over the wall. Keeping the ball down means the walls can be used for rebounds, passes and other fun tricks that will never been seen in an outdoor game.

The Field

Newbies to the sport will find the field much smaller, and closer to the size of a hockey rink. The goals are also a bit smaller, naturally and sometimes fit right into the walls to allow for more playing space. The floors can be turf or basketball court-style and the type of shoes is important. There's a great line of Adidas indoor soccer shoes, among other brands but it's important to make sure they are appropriate for the surface being played on.

Adidas indoor soccer shoes are made with different bottoms to accommodate for turf or flat surfaces so it's best to check with the store if unsure. However, there's a simple way to differentiate. For court-style play, the shoes will be more smooth on the bottom and for turf they'll have a bit of a cleat look.

There are just six players on an indoor soccer team, which includes the keeper. Of course having a larger team is great as it allows for alternates. The game is very fast-paced so players, especially younger, will appreciate a breather.

Rules

There are just a few differences when it comes to indoor soccer versus outdoor. There are no off sides calls, no throw ins, a penalty box just like ice hockey, blue cards and the coach has unlimited substitutions.

Though Indoor soccer has been played since the late 1800's the game really gained in popularity in the 1980's in North America. This happened when pro leagues were formed and then of course, youth leagues for recreation followed.

It's no wonder that brands like Adidas indoor soccer shoes are a huge seller, and many big box and online stores start stocking up when cold months are approaching. Many agree that the trick to excelling at indoor soccer is the sole of the foot. Anyone who receives the ball with the sole rather than the inside of the food (like outdoor) will have better control.

Not to mention, this type of practice truly benefits kids in the following outdoor season. They have a chance to learn new skills that can play over. Plus, it keeps them warmed up and builds endurance rather than sitting around all winter. Many find that they love indoor a little more than outdoor and are anxious to play again. It's definitely more fast-paced and a nice switch from outdoor games.

Remember when investing in Adidas indoor soccer shoes, or other brands, that the size purchased is true to the player's current shoe size. With soccer shoes, it's important to not buy a size to "grow into" because they'll only be wearing them for a few months. A shoe that's more snug will allow for better performance.