Volleyball Basics: The Five Skills Every Player Needs
Volleyball is fast, fun and social, and it can be played indoors, on the beach or even in a park. Learning five core skills will have you playing in no time.
The five skills
- Serve: starts each rally. Begin with an underhand serve and develop an overhand serve later.
- Pass (bump): hands together, arms straight, and use your legs to direct the ball up.
- Set: use your fingertips above your forehead to guide the ball to the hitter.
- Attack (spike): approach, jump and hit the ball over the net.
- Block: jump at the net with your hands above it to stop the spike.
The three-touch rule
A team usually has up to three touches to return the ball: pass, set and attack. Communication, such as calling "mine", is crucial.
Footwork and position
- Stay low, with knees bent.
- Move to the ball before you play it.
- Keep your eyes on the ball.
Fitness for volleyball
Strong legs, shoulders and core help with jumping and hitting. Include squats, lunges and shoulder-stability exercises in your training.
