How to Spike a Volleyball

The spike - sending the ball forward and downward over the net by striking it overhead with an open hand - is a player's most powerful offensive weapon.

Things You'll Need

• Volleyball Boundary Sets
• Volleyball Net Systems
• Volleyballs

Instructions

1. Position yourself three to four strides from the net.

2. Anticipate where the ball is going so you can jump and intercept it with the palm of your hitting hand at the extent of your reach, above and slightly forward of your head.

3. Explode to that interception point with your first step (your right foot, if you're right-handed), raising both hands in front of your torso.

4. Take two quick small steps (left, right) to gather your feet under you (with knees bent), while simultaneously swinging your arms behind you like a pendulum.

5. Swing your hands forward and up while jumping; this helps you rocket into the air and places you in proper hitting position.

6. Draw your right hand back behind your head as you rise, so your open palm faces the sky - like a waiter carrying a tray.

7. Point your left hand at the ball, as if you're lining it up in your gun sight (actually, you are).

8. Hammer the ball with your open right hand, snapping the wrist and swiveling your torso to put the maximum amount of topspin and velocity on it.

9. Accept the praise of your teammates if the opposing team can't keep the ball in play - you've just recorded a 'kill.'

Tips & Warnings

• If you can't jump high enough to hit the ball when it's above the height of the net, you should spike farther away from the net whenever possible. You want to hit the ball forward and down as much as you can, not straight up so the opposing players have plenty of time to react to it. If you're tall and/or a good jumper, make contact as close to the net as you can (without reaching over it, which is illegal). If there are no blockers in the way, pummel it straight down.