Playing technique
Technique built on body mechanics
Every passing platform, jump serve, block and attack follows observable physical steps. We break each action down into stance, movement, contact and follow-through so you can check your own form on court.
Core actions
Passing, serving and blocking, step by step
Passing
Platform passing and digging
A stable platform comes from a low, balanced stance, arms held together below the wrists, and a shoulder angle that sends the ball where you want it. Check your knee bend first, then your arm angle, then the timing of your contact with the ball.
Serving
Jump serve mechanics
The jump serve links a controlled toss, a run-up and a full-body swing. Keep the toss in front of the hitting shoulder and make contact at the highest point of the swing, with the hand firm and the wrist locked.
Blocking
Middle block footwork and hand placement
A middle blocker moves with short, quick steps and squares the shoulders to the net. Hands rise from the top of the net with fingers spread and slightly separated, and the body stays close to the net so the block covers the attacker's line.
Attacking sequence
The four-step spike approach
01
Step 1: Read the set
Start from a short, neutral position and watch the ball and the setter. Your first movement should be a small step that prepares the approach.
02
Step 2: Left-right start
Begin with a left step for a right-handed hitter, then a right step, so the body is loaded and ready to accelerate toward the ball.
03
Step 3: Plant and jump
Plant both feet firmly with knees bent, swing the arms back, and jump vertically. Keep the timing so your highest point lines up with the ball.
04
Step 4: Arm swing and contact
Bring the hitting arm back and up, then contact the ball at the highest reachable point with a firm hand and a snapping wrist. Land with control on both feet.