Technique
To improve at volleyball, two key elements are essential: technique and fitness.
Without a good grasp of the movements, it is impossible to perform consistently. Without fitness, it is difficult to execute a sequence of moves effectively.
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Why practise technique ?
Volleyball is, above all, a technical sport. You can’t hold onto the ball. Each contact lasts just a few milliseconds, so there’s no room for error.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, improving your technique will help you be more precise, consistent and effective in matches.
Good technique allows you, in particular, to:
- control the ball better
- execute moves more quickly
- reduce unforced errors
- gain confidence
- make lasting progress
…in short, to make every touch a ‘game changer’.
Here, you’ll learn the technical fundamentals of volleyball and how to improve them through simple, effective exercises.
The technical fundamentals
The serve
The serve is the first shot of every rally. It puts the ball into play, but it’s also your first chance to put your opponent under pressure. A good serve isn’t just about ‘getting the ball over the net’: it needs to be consistent, accurate and controlled.
To improve, focus on three key elements:
- a stable stance before striking the ball,
- a consistent toss,
- a fluid and relaxed motion.
There are several types of serve (floating, smash, drop), but there’s no need to try and master them all straight away. Start by aiming for simple areas of your opponent’s court, then gradually increase the difficulty.
A reliable serve is often better than a very powerful but inconsistent one.
The forearm pass
The set is the foundation of defence and reception. It is often the first point of contact with the ball after the opponent’s serve. Without a good set, it becomes very difficult to build a clean attack.
An effective set relies on:
- the legs, the set is a movement that starts primarily from the legs,
- a low stance with bent knees,
- arms extended and locked in place,
- contact with the ball at forearm level,
- a push from the legs to follow the ball’s trajectory.
The aim is not to hit the ball, but to guide it with control towards the setter. The more stable your set, the faster and more accurately your team will be able to play. It’s a move that can be frustrating at first, but it’s essential for long-term progress.
The overhand pass
The overhead pass is a universal skill. It forms the link between defence and attack, but it is also the volleyball player’s most precise weapon, whether in defence, attack or as a setter.
To improve your overhead pass:
- position yourself under the ball as early as possible,
- form a triangle with your hands above your forehead,
- bend your knees slightly,
- push with your whole body, not just your arms.
Accuracy is more important than speed. A pass that is too low, too high or poorly directed makes attacking much more difficult. With practice, you will learn to adapt your pass to the situation and the player who is about to hit the ball.
The spike
The attack is the most spectacular move in volleyball, but also one of the most technically complex. It combines several elements: the run-up, the jump, arm-leg coordination and timing with the setter.
To improve :
- work on your run-up to arrive well-balanced under the ball,
- synchronise your jump with the set,
- imagine your arm is a whip and let it snap,
- hit the ball at the highest possible point,
- aim for the open spaces on the opposition’s side of the court.
A good attack does not rely solely on power. Accuracy, variety of shots and reading the opposition’s block are just as important. Even a less powerful but well-placed attack can be very effective if executed correctly.
The block
The block is the first line of defence against the opposition’s attacks. It allows players either to block the ball directly or to slow its trajectory, making it easier for the defence behind to deal with it.
A good block requires:
- quick reading of the game,
- good positioning in relation to the attacker,
- a controlled vertical jump,
- arms outstretched and hands well positioned towards the opposition’s court,
- and above all, a firm intention to block the attack completely.
Blocking is also a team effort. Coordinating with teammates allows you to close down more attacking angles and put strong pressure on the opposition.