Have you ever wondered how to play volleyball properly so you can participate without getting lost? Many people want to try it, but often hesitate due to fear of making the wrong move or not understanding their position.
This article will explain a complete guide on how to play volleyball from scratch in a relaxed yet clear manner. You'll understand basic techniques, important rules, and strategies to boost your confidence.
What is Volleyball?
Volleyball is a team sport played by two teams, each passing a ball over a net. The goal is to get the ball to touch the opponent's court to score points. The game demands team coordination, focus, and strategy.
This sport is known for its speed, dynamics, and coordination. While it may seem simple, volleyball demands agility, the ability to read the game, and quick reflexes. Players must be able to move quickly, adjust their position, and maintain focus throughout the rally.
In volleyball, every player must master basic techniques such as passing, serving, and smashing. These three techniques are the main foundation for a team to attack and defend effectively. Regular practice is essential to ensure each technique is executed correctly and consistently during matches.
Quality teamwork is key to victory in volleyball. Players must communicate with each other to maintain control of the ball's movement and ensure a smooth strategy. Without good communication, even excellent individual technique can diminish the chances of scoring.
In addition to technique and strategy, volleyball also has scoring rules using a rally point system, with up to 25 points per set. Matches are typically played in three or five sets, depending on the level of competition. Players must also understand rotations, fouls, and service zones to ensure the game remains consistent.
Also read: 6 Volleyball Player Positions You Should Know Before Playing!
Basic Volleyball Techniques for Beginners
1. Underhand Pass
The underhand pass is a basic technique for receiving the first ball from an opponent's serve or smash. The arms should be closed, the hands locked, and the body slightly bent to ensure a stable lift.
This technique is used when the ball comes low or fast, requiring strong control. Common beginner mistakes include not keeping your hands together enough or hitting the ball too hard, resulting in uncontrolled movement.
2. Overhead Pass
The overhand pass is used to set up an attack and deliver a subtle pass to the spiker. The fingers form a small triangle, then the ball is touched with the fingertips with gentle but controlled force.
The difference between overhead passes for control and setup is the height and direction of the pass. Beginners often make mistakes by hitting the ball in the palm of their hand or pushing too hard, resulting in inaccuracy.
3. Service
The serve is a moment that often makes beginners nervous because it determines the start of the game. For beginners, the underhand serve is the safest because it's simpler and has a higher chance of going in.
Consistency is key to getting the ball over the net in a straight line. Common mistakes include getting the ball caught in the net or swinging too slowly and lacking power.
4. Smash
A smash is a powerful attack technique used to score points immediately. The movement consists of a run-up, a jump, and a punch, all executed at a fast pace.
Timing is the most important factor in ensuring the ball lands hard and into the empty area. Common mistakes like jumping too high or hitting too late can be addressed with coordination training.
5. Blocking
Blocking is the first line of defense against an opponent's attack at the net. You must read the direction of the ball, then jump in time while directing your hands slightly into the opponent's area.
Blocks can be performed alone or with a partner for greater reach. Common mistakes, such as not keeping your fingers together or positioning too far from the net, can be corrected through team practice.
Also read: 7 Ways to Increase Stamina to Make Your Body More Powerful
Volleyball Strategy to Level Up
Once you've mastered the basic techniques, the next step is to understand the game's overall strategy. Volleyball isn't just about hitting the ball as hard as possible; it's about reading the game's rhythm and making the most informed decisions.
This game relies on the ability to read the ball's direction and the ability to work collaboratively with teammates. The goal is to make the game more organized, more focused, and much more effective when facing various types of opponents.
Common attack patterns like quick attacks, open attacks, and back attacks require quick coordination between the setter and spiker. The setter must be able to read the situation in a split second and then deliver a pass that allows for an attack without giving the opponent time to prepare.
Ball placement is also crucial for maximizing your opponent's defensive gaps. The smarter you place the ball, the greater your team's chances of scoring points through more varied and surprising attacks.
On defense, you need to pay attention to the opposing spiker's habits, their body position when preparing to hit, and even their libero's position. Communication between players is crucial to ensure everyone moves in sync and avoids confusion during fast-paced rallies.
Also read: 7 Endurance Exercises to Keep Your Body Strong and Less Tired
Quick Tips to Become a Volleyball Expert
If you want to improve quickly, you need to have the right basic technique from the start. Start with passing drills, consistent serving, and simple footwork to build stability.
These three basic exercises alone are enough to help improve your ball control and agility. Do light exercises regularly to get your body used to the rhythm of the game.
Physical exercises like vertical jumps, agility ladders, and hand-eye coordination also significantly improve your game stability. Add communication training with your teammates to help you be more alert during rallies.
Besides physical fitness, you also need to train your mental health to avoid nervousness in crucial moments. Focus on one small improvement in each training session to make progress more visible and your decisions quicker on the field.
Improve Your Volleyball Game with SVRG Equipment
Playing volleyball well requires mastering basic techniques, understanding strategy, and consistent physical and mental training. Proper volleyball technique will help you develop faster, improve your skills, and enjoy the game with confidence.
To support your volleyball training, SVRG provides quality sports equipment such as agility ladders for footwork training, skipping ropes to increase stamina, and kinesio tape to prevent injuries.
If you want more measurable and professional training progress, check out the volleyball training equipment at SVRG. With the right equipment, your training will be much more effective and your volleyball skills will improve faster.
