Do You Need Long Legs to Play Soccer?

In soccer, the beautiful game, a player’s size doesn’t matter. There are no restrictions based on height or build. Having long legs can be an advantage for goalkeepers, as it helps them jump higher and catch the ball more easily, benefiting the team. 

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Long Legs vs. Short Legs

In soccer, the discussion between long and short legs can arise when considering positions and their benefits.

Long Legs

Tall players generally have an advantage in some positions, namely as goalkeepers and defenders. Their extra legs allow them to run more distance, which assists in the fight for the ball, especially in headers, blocking shots, or jumping to get the ball.

It can suggest better flip-flop movement for goalkeepers to get to the ball, make saves, and provide more coverage during set pieces like corner kicks.

Short Legs

Players with short legs are found mostly in positions where they use a lot of energy and speed within a short time. Midfielders and forwards are known to have short legs, but they are most likely to trick the defenders by rapidly changing direction. 

Short legs may also help with balance and agility when controlling narrow turns or when defenders attack from behind.

What Sport Needs Long Legs?

Long legs can provide advantages in several sports, especially those that benefit from greater stride length, reach, or leverage. Here’s how long legs can be beneficial in each of the sports you mentioned:

Cycling

Long legs have the mechanical advantage of creating more force with each pedal push, as seen in long-distance and time trials. 

Riders with long limb spans get added leverage, especially when they push down the pedal, making it easier to achieve and sustain high speeds over a longer distance.

Distance Running

Long legs are more effective in issues related to the length of the runner’s stride, where a long-legged individual will cover more distance within every single stride he takes. 

Speed and stamina are even more important in distance races, which is why longer limbs are not the sole factors that can lead to victory.

Canoeing

Muscular strength may also not be a determinant factor for strokes since the swimmer is required to have long legs, but they may play a smaller role than the upper body portion of the swimmer. 

They can offer greater stability and control during paddling, which is especially useful in sprint races.

Kayaking

Like canoeing, kayaking involves using arms and shoulders, so one needs to be strong and have proper form.

Long legs are good for balance and agility, and while balance is important here, it is not as important as it may be in basketball or Valley ball.

High Jumping

Long legs are required for high jumping and running activities. They help produce more force and overcome high bars.

They also help one gain leverage to make that big jump, which is very important in such a sport.