🏐 Volleyball Analysis & Technique Guide
Spiking Approach & Attack
The spike is volleyball's primary offensive weapon. Proper approach timing, jump technique, and arm swing create powerful attacks.
Approach Steps
- Four-step approach: left-right-left-right (right-handed)
- Accelerate through the approach
- Last two steps are quick and explosive
- Arms swing back on penultimate step
Jump & Timing
- Plant both feet simultaneously
- Arms swing up explosively for lift
- Jump straight up, not forward
- Time jump to meet ball at highest point
Arm Swing & Contact
- High elbow position during wind-up
- Contact ball with open hand
- Snap wrist at contact for topspin
- Follow through across body
Video Analysis Tip: Film approach from the side to analyze footwork timing and from behind to see arm swing mechanics. Use slow motion for jump and contact analysis.
Common Spiking Errors
- Approaching too fast or too slow
- Jumping forward instead of straight up
- Low elbow position reducing power
- Poor timing with setter
Serving Technique
Consistent serving puts immediate pressure on opponents. Different serve types require specific techniques for maximum effectiveness.
Float Serve
- Consistent toss in front of hitting shoulder
- Contact ball with firm, flat hand
- No wrist snap - punch through ball
- Follow through stops at contact
Topspin Serve
- Higher toss than float serve
- Contact ball with open hand
- Snap wrist over ball for spin
- Follow through down and across body
Jump Serve
- Approach similar to spike approach
- High toss allows for jumping contact
- Full arm swing like spiking motion
- Land safely after contact
Video Analysis Tip: Record serves from behind to see toss consistency and arm motion. Side view shows body positioning and follow-through.
Blocking Technique
Effective blocking requires proper positioning, timing, and hand placement to deflect or stuff opponent attacks.
Ready Position
- Hands up at shoulder height
- Feet shoulder-width apart
- Weight on balls of feet
- Eyes on hitter and ball
Jump & Penetration
- Jump straight up with explosive leg drive
- Reach over net with straight arms
- Hands angled down toward court
- Fingers spread wide and firm
Positioning
- Line up with hitter's approach angle
- Adjust position based on set location
- Form solid wall with other blockers
- Take away hitter's best angle
Common Blocking Errors
- Jumping too early or too late
- Hands not penetrating over net
- Poor communication with other blockers
- Watching ball instead of hitter
Setting & Ball Control
Precise setting creates scoring opportunities. Consistent hand position and release create accurate, hittable sets.
Hand Position
- Hands form triangle above forehead
- Fingers spread with thumbs and forefingers prominent
- Contact ball with fingertips only
- Both hands contact ball simultaneously
Body Mechanics
- Square shoulders to target
- Transfer weight from back to front foot
- Extend arms and legs through release
- Follow through toward target
Set Placement
- Consistent height and location
- Set off the net for hitter safety
- Adjust tempo based on hitter preference
- Create deception with body position
Video Analysis Tip: Film setting from multiple angles to see hand position and ball trajectory. Focus on consistency of release point and follow-through.
Video Analysis Camera Angles
Volleyball analysis requires strategic camera placement to capture the fast-paced action and technical details.
Attack Analysis
- Side view: Approach timing and jump mechanics
- Behind hitter: Arm swing and contact point
- Court level: Attack angle and ball trajectory
Defensive Analysis
- Elevated view: Team positioning and movement
- Net level: Blocking technique and timing
- Backcourt: Digging and passing technique
Setting Analysis
- Behind setter: Hand position and ball release
- Side view: Body mechanics and footwork
- Above: Set trajectory and hitter timing