top of page

How to Get Better at Goalkeeping: Tips for Every Goalie


Black goalkeeper gloves how to get better at goalkeeping

Goalkeeping is one of the most challenging positions in soccer, requiring a unique blend of technical skill, mental resilience, and physical fitness. Whether you're just starting or aiming to reach the next level, there are always ways to improve. Below are actionable tips to help you become the best goalkeeper you can be.



Every great goalkeeper builds their game on solid fundamentals. Positioning, handling, and footwork are the foundation of your success. Proper positioning ensures you're always in the right place to cut down shooting angles. Clean handling minimizes rebounds and keeps your team out of danger. Precise footwork allows you to stay balanced and ready for any save.

Here are some ways to work on the basics:


  • Diving Drills: Place balls a few yards on either side of you and focus on the technique of diving down to the ball.

  • Handling Practice: Catch balls of varying speeds and heights to improve consistency.

  • Footwork Focus: Set up agility ladders or cones to work on lateral movements and quick adjustments.


To master these basics, incorporate drills that focus on catching, diving, and lateral movement into your daily practice. For example, use a rebounder to work on reaction saves or set up cones to improve your lateral agility. The more comfortable you are with the fundamentals, the more prepared you'll be to handle game situations.



Goalkeepers are often required to make split-second decisions that can change the course of a match. Knowing when to stay on your line, when to come out, and how to distribute the ball effectively are critical skills.


Ways to Build Decision-Making Skills:


  • Small-Sided Scenarios: Create drills where you face fast-paced situations, such as 1v1s or crossing challenges.

  • Game Footage Analysis: Watch recordings of yourself or professional goalkeepers to identify patterns and improve your instincts.

  • Distribution Practice: Work on throwing, punting, and passing accurately to transition your team into attack.


Small-sided games are an excellent way to practice decision-making. These scenarios mimic real-game situations and force you to react quickly to different challenges. Over time, you'll build the confidence needed to make smart decisions under pressure.



Goalkeeping requires more than just sharp reflexes; it demands strength, agility, and endurance. Your physical fitness plays a vital role in your ability to perform at your best.

Key areas to focus on:


  • Strength Training: Build core and leg strength for explosive dives and jumps.

  • Agility Drills: Use ladders, cones, and short sprints to improve reaction times and foot speed.

  • Flexibility: Utilize dynamic stretches to enhance your range of motion and prevent injuries.


Incorporating yoga or mobility exercises into your routine can improve both flexibility and mental focus. These activities not only help your body recover but also prepare you for the physical demands of goalkeeping.



Mistakes are inevitable, but how you respond to them can define your success as a goalkeeper. Developing mental toughness will help you stay composed in high-pressure situations and recover quickly from errors.

goalkeeping book goalkeeper tips goalkeeper advice

Tips for Mental Resilience:


  • Visualization: Picture yourself making key saves and confidently commanding your box before each match.

  • Focus on the Next Play: Learn to let go of mistakes quickly and channel your energy into the next moment.

  • Practice Breathing Techniques: Controlled breathing can help you remain calm and focused during high-stakes moments.


If you struggle with nerves or confidence, breathing exercises can help you stay calm in high-pressure situations. Practicing these techniques regularly will make it easier to remain composed during games. Our latest book release, The Last Line: A Comprehensive Guide To Modern Goalkeeping, provides an entire chapter on the mental side of the position.



Dealing with crosses and high balls is one of the most challenging aspects of goalkeeping. It requires strong positioning, good timing, and clear communication with your defense.


  • Catch vs. Punch: Learn to decide quickly whether to secure the ball or punch it clear.

  • Positioning Practice: Have teammates or coaches deliver high balls into the box so you can work on timing your jumps.

  • Communication: Develop a commanding presence by using clear, loud instructions to organize your defense.


To improve, practice with teammates or coaches delivering high balls into the box. Focus on timing your jumps, maintaining strong hands, and clearly communicating with your defenders to establish authority in the box.



Self-assessment is a critical part of growth. Watching game footage allows you to identify your strengths and areas for improvement. Look for patterns—are there specific types of shots or situations where you consistently struggle?


Here’s how to approach performance analysis:


  • Review Games Regularly: Take time each week to evaluate your performance.

  • Set Goals: Focus on specific improvements, such as reducing rebounds or increasing distribution accuracy.

  • Seek Feedback: Collaborate with your coach to refine techniques and adjust your training focus.


Feedback from coaches is invaluable, but self-reflection is equally important. Set measurable goals, such as improving your handling consistency or reducing the number of rebounds you allow, and track your progress over time.



Professional goalkeepers are great examples of how to handle different game scenarios. Watching their games can teach you about positioning, decision-making, and composure.


  • Observe Specific Techniques: Pay attention to how pros handle penalty saves, 1v1 situations, and corner kicks.

  • Follow Their Training Routines: Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok have revolutionized goalkeepers' access to high-level goalkeeping.

  • Adapt Their Habits: Incorporate what you learn into your own training to enhance your game.


Many professional goalkeepers also share their training routines and tips on social media. Following them can provide inspiration and practical advice that you can incorporate into your own training.



Consistency is key to becoming a better goalkeeper. Improvement doesn’t happen overnight, but regular practice ensures steady progress. Dedicate time to goalkeeping-specific drills in addition to team practices.


A simple weekly plan might include:


  • Technical work: Handling and diving drills.

  • Physical training: Strength and agility exercises.

  • Tactical practice: Situational drills for crosses and distribution.


Each week, take time to review your progress and adjust your training plan. Whether it’s improving your diving technique or sharpening your distribution, small, incremental improvements will add up over time.


 

Getting better at goalkeeping requires dedication, patience, and a passion for the position. Focus on mastering the basics, refining your decision-making, and staying mentally and physically prepared. Remember, every great goalkeeper was once where you are now—constantly learning and improving.


What’s your favorite way to improve as a goalkeeper? Share your tips in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!


Head over to our Amazon Storefront to see all of our BEST goalkeeping recommendations for both on and off the field. You can also head over to our online shop to see our entire line of goalkeeper gloves, apparel, and FREE resources. Be sure to follow us on all of our social media pages: Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube.

Comments


Recent Posts

Follow Us

  • Black Facebook Icon
  • Black Twitter Icon
  • Black Instagram Icon
bottom of page