Volleyball is a fast-moving, exciting sport to both play and watch. Proper technique involves serving the ball over the net so that the receiving team can return the ball to your side. Ideally, the receiving team uses a bump, set and spike in hopes of scoring a point. Proper technique for all of these moves helps make the game more fun and injury-free.
Bump Technique
Typically, you receive the serve with a bump, which is also called a forearm pass in some countries. The bump stops the ball's movement, redirecting it upward so that your team can assemble and respond. Bumping involves hitting the ball with two hands clasped together, contacting the ball with your forearms. Your hands must remain clasped. Don't contact the ball with your wrists, knuckles or hands -- doing so may cause injury. Bend both legs and position yourself beneath the ball to receive it and control the trajectory of the bump.
Set Technique
Setters typically receive the ball that is passed via a bump. Setting involves flicking the ball with two hands apart, lifting the ball from the tips of the fingers. A set is also a passing movement, with your team moving the ball toward the net in an organized fashion. Don't contact the ball with your palms or slap at it. Both hands must contact the ball at the same time. Typically, you set the ball from above your head. Hold your hands up at eye level or above and form a triangle with your thumbs and forefingers. When you see the ball in the triangle, set it to your front line for a spike.
Spike Technique
Spiking is done at the front line, just next to the net. Receiving the ball from your setter, you jump and with one arm, power the ball onto the opposing team's side. They key to a good spike is the jump. Stand with feet hip-width apart and bend your knees. As the ball comes to you, jump up as high as possible with your arm raised, but bent down to power the ball's trajectory down when you hit. Hit the ball with the palm of your hand.
Serve Technique
Each player in volleyball typically gets a chance to serve. Proper technique doesn't focus solely on power. Instead, focus on proper placement of the ball on the opposing side and your approach to the ball. One hand holds the ball; the other hand hits it, regardless of whether you're serving overhand or underhand. Beginners typically start with an underhand serve. In this case, one hand holds the ball, the other hand bends back at the wrist, and you make contact with the ball as you step forward.
With an overhand serve, you push the ball up with the supporting hand and hit the ball with the other hand, palm open and fingers spread. You can also add a jump to the serve as you gain accuracy. When serving, focus on powering the serve with your body, not just the swing of your arm. Use your hips and core to drive the ball. If serving overhand, practice your push just as you would a toss in tennis -- it's critical to get the ball properly placed to hit it with accuracy and power.
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