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.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Volleyball Boundary Sets
• Volleyball Net Systems
• Volleyballs
• Volleyballs

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.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Tired of Being Tired? Fight Fatigue and Try FRS for FREE!

[thomas9446]

on 1/30/2009 Don’t necessarily “stare” down the ball, try and keep an eye on where the opposing blockers are setting themselves. This will allow you to decide your shot earlier, and will lead to more success. Also, an open hand ensures a more solid contact on the ball and much greater control over your shot.

on 9/12/2006 After hitting the ball, land in a position that you are facing the opposite direction, this allows for an ample amount of power, and betters your chances of a successful attack.

on 8/27/2006 Stare the ball down throughout the entire approach. See it launch from the setter's fingertips up into the air. With your eyes glued to the ball rise up to meet with it and when you're at your highest, slap it downward. Keep your eyes on it until it's dead. Follow through with your eyes and your spike will greatly improve.

on 8/8/2006 When you approach, it's left, right, left. Also, aim your shoulders in the direction you are wanting to hit. If you want to hit line, make sure your shoulders go in that direction and swing straight on the ball. Otherwise, you will swing across your body causing you to be off balance and hit the ball awkwardly.

on 8/8/2006 I found that it's harder to get a good angle when you hit with your open hand. I (and team members) close my hand. Not like a fist, just a firm hand with the fingers not spread apart. Don't aim your hand up, like your carrying water or whatever, contact the ball at the top, and aim down. Visualize where you are when you hit - it helps!