Volleyball hitting, also called the attack or spike, usually takes place after the pass and set. Volleyball hitting can be divided into four steps. These four steps are: approach, positioning, arm swing, and timing. Practicing volleyball hits and performing hitting drills will improve coordination and timing.
Approach
The hitter should line up slightly behind the ten foot line with their left foot slightly in front and arms at the sides. The hitter should then step forward with the right leg followed by the left. After the hitter hops forward and plants their feet firmly on the ground they need to make sure they are facing the setter. Then they have bend their knees and jump. The hitter should also swing their arms behind as they plant their feet on the ground. When jumping, the hitter should use their forward momentum to move upward. They should move their arms upward and over their head. This motion can propel them higher when they jump.
Positioning
When hitting, the hitter should position themselves so that the ball is always in front of them. This requires practice. This is because the hitter has to be able to judge where the ball will be as soon as it leaves the setter’s hands. They also have to place themselves at the right spot. If the distance between the ball and the hitter is too great, they will only be able to tip the ball over the net. When the ball is too close, the hitter has to contort in the air to loop it over the net. This is why the hitter needs to be in the right spot.
Arm Swing
To hit the volleyball properly, the hitter should quickly bring their left arm down after they jump and move their shoulders and hips around to hit the ball. The ball should be hit with the force of the whole body, not just with the arms and shoulders. The ball should be hit on the upper back section. It should also be hit with an open hand and spread fingers. The force on the ball should be downward. This force should also be applied when the hitter is at the maximum height when jumping.
Timing
Hitters also need to time their approach to the ball. They should hit the ball just as they are coming down from their jump. The ball can be at its maximum height or at some other point in its trajectory, depending on the height to which the hitter can jump and the speed of the ball. Timing comes with practice. If the hitter is already coming down when hitting the ball, they are jumping too early. In addition, if the ball is at the height of the head when you are hitting it, you are jumping too late. Volleyball hitting is an important and exciting part of the game for both players and spectators. Regular practice and drills will hone the approach, positioning, arm swing, and timing of the hitter as well as the coordination between the setter and the hitter. The ability of the hitter to judge the timing and positioning of the ball as it leaves the setter’s hands is a skill that is developed with practice.
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(images: FIVB)