How to Block a Volleyball

"Blocking well is a combination of body positioning and timing," says Rob Heidger, pro beach volleyball player. "I like to count 1,001 as soon as the hitter jumps, then go up for the block. 'Late and quick' is what we call it."

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Volleyball Boundary Sets
• Knee pads
• Volleyballs
• Volleyball Net Systems

1. Follow the set and line up with the hitter.
2. Focus on the hitter to read where he or she is going to hit and how hard.
3. Stand as close to the net as possible without hitting it.
4. Jump up straight with big arms and open hands.
5. Reach over the net and down to cut off the hitter's angles.
6. Go after the ball and "grab it" on a tight set.

Tips & Warnings

• "Blocking drills are a good way to stay in shape, build quickness and leg strength," says Heidger. "They are a common component of any serious volleyball player's workout routine."
• To run a blocking drill, block jump and come down, then shuffle to one side and jump again, then move back in the other direction and jump again.
• Work on leg strengthening in the gym by doing squats, quadricep and calf extensions, leg curls and so on.
• Heidger and his teammate Kevin Wong are the No. 1 ranked U.http://www.ehow.com/images/ehows/steps/vballblock_5_s.gif /images/ehows/steps/vballblock_5_s.gifS. Men's Doubles Team in beach volleyball. Keep tabs as they aim for their slot in the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia.