Tell me more ×
Physics Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for active researchers, academics and students of physics. It's 100% free, no registration required.
up vote 1 down vote favorite

It's relatively common knowledge that when one kicks a football, if they lean back the ball usually goes higher, and if they lean forward slightly it goes at a more desirable height.

Why does leaning back make the ball go higher?

I'm guessing that it could be something to do with the centre of mass or angular momentum.

share|improve this question
3  
This is likely a question about sports physiology and bio-mechanics rather than one about physics. Obviously those topics can be described in terms of physics, but they are generally treated by specialists. – dmckee♦ Nov 11 '12 at 18:56
Where do you suggest I migrate to? – Olly Price Nov 11 '12 at 22:10
I don't suggest migrating it at all, and don't know of a Stack Exchange site where you will necessarily find a good answer. I'm just saying that it is not clear that there is a concise answer in term of basic physics. Question involving how people move are generally complicated. – dmckee♦ Nov 11 '12 at 22:14

1 Answer

up vote 2 down vote

When lean back you're foot naturally goes a little bit higher. Try it, just lift one foot like 5 cm of the floor, and then tilt back and forth and you will see that you're foot will go along. When you hit a football every mm counts.

share|improve this answer

Your Answer

 
discard

By posting your answer, you agree to the privacy policy and terms of service.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.