Spiking is a vital skill in volleyball. If done appropriately, every spike you make will earn your team points.
It is also likely to intimidate your opponents hence giving you more energy to keep going.
However, it is not the easiest move to learn, but with passion and practice, you are ready to go.
How about we learn more about volleyball spike drills?
7 Volleyball Spike Drills
A well-done spike not only makes the game exciting but also earns you points. Here are some simple drills that you can implement while spiking the ball.
Spike Drill #1: The Spike Approach
This approach is started by the front row players. They should do it from the 10-foot line to allow enough distance to gain momentum.
As a player, you should engage in the spike approach warm up before the game begins. This way, your body will be ready to take the challenge during the playtime.
Spike Drill #2: The Wall Spikes
I know this sounds quite obvious, right? In this drill, you should stand 10 feet from a wall.
Using your dominant hand, hit the ball on the ground between you and the wall.
The ball will bounce and hit the wall and then back to the player. Follow it with your non-dominant hand and hit it back with your dominant hand.
Continue with the drill to perfect your strikes.
Spike Drill #3: High Contact Drill
This drill is practiced in pairs. The players will toss the ball high and hit it towards their partner.
To perfect this drill, players would warm up focusing on their shoulders before getting into the drills.
Ensure that you reach as high as you can while jumping so that your spikes can be powerful.
Spike Drill #4: Team approach jumps drills
This stands as the most fun drills for volleyball spiking. This is because all the team members do it without the need for a ball.
The players make a line along the sideline. Every player will then approach the net, one after the other.
Once all, the players have reached the other sideline; the drill comes to an end.
Progression #1: Run through the sequence without a ball.
Progression #2: Coach (or another player) feeds the ball from the other side of the court.
Progression #3: Place targets on the opposite side of the court for player to aim for.
Spike Drill #5: Pass -set-hit
Just as the name suggests, the drill involves some passing, setting, and finally hitting.
You need to be in groups of at least three participants.
One of the players will set the ball to the passer, who will pass it back to the setter.
The passer moves to a strategic position where he or she can make a great strike.
Below are two variations of this drill. With the video demo the more advanced drill.
Spike Drill #6: Game Simulated Hitting Drill
During this drill, the coach tosses the ball to the passer who sends the ball to the setter.
When they receive the ball, they set it to the attacker who makes the spike.
Six players are required while performing this drill.
Progression #1: Start with the basic setup as per the illustration opposite.
Progression #2: Place targets the other side of the court to aim for.
Progression 3: Introduce another team on the other side of the court to counter the attack.
Spike Drill #7: Situational Hitting
This is where the players learn when to spike the ball by taking advantage of a situation.
Have the offensive and defensive teams in place and practice the drill based on different situations.
How do you spike a volleyball step by step?
Playing sports the right way excites not only the audience but also motivates the teams.
When playing volleyball, you need to know how to spike because this move opens up many scoring chances.
Here is a guide on how to spike a volleyball.
1. Be in the right position.
According to volleyball rules, a spiker should be on the front row.
However, a perfect spike is done either on the right or left side.
Stand behind the attack line and strike the ball downward at a sharp angle in a way that your opponents are not likely to hit back.
2. Keep your eyes on the setter
This player sets the ball high towards you. You need to watch him or her to determine where and how to position yourself for a significant spike.
If you are only practicing, choose a well-skilled setter.
This is because it will be easier for you to learn to spike, unlike when you practice with a beginner.
During the game, the spiker should always inform the other players that they are about to spike the ball.
Most teams create codes to use for such occasions.
3. Take the first step toward the ball
If you are right-handed, use your left leg to take the first powerful step. Left-handed people should do the reverse.
4. Bring in your second step
This step will allow you to build the appropriate speed for a considerable spike. At this moment, you should be swinging your hands towards the back as you get ready for the spike. Ensure that you approximate the distance appropriately, so you don’t take a step too short or too long.
5. It is time for your final step
Use your left leg if you are right-handed or right leg for left-handed players to take this step. Your hands should also be swinging behind you to help boost the upward momentum as you spike the ball. Maintain balance by keeping your feet at shoulder-width apart.
6. Jump while the ball is falling into position
You are almost there. Swing your arms forward as you jump high up for a powerful strike.
7. Move your hand back for a strike
Ensure you swing your hand above the head. Position your hand at the head level and get ready to strike like a pro.
8. Take your shot
Keep your fingers together as you hit the ball with the center of your hand.
Ensure that you move your hand quickly, so you hit the ball real hard.
This way, your opponents are likely to miss the ball, and your team will get the points.
For a powerful shot, spike the ball from your jump-height. Avoid touching the nest as you will be going against the rules.
You should take back your hand after the spike, so you rent penalized.
9. Land properly
To maintain your balance by bending your knees as you land. Afterward, get back to a position ready to continue with the game.
Always keep your eyes on the ball, so you know what is expected of you.
How can I improve my volleyball spike? (3-5 tips)
They say practice makes perfect. This happens in volleyball as well.
If you want to enhance your spike, frequent practice comes first.
However, here are a few tips that will help you be a better spiker.
- Get a good coach and practice a technique called wiping the block. You can also do this with a partner, not necessarily a coach. Let them hold a wooden board and stand on a table above the net. You aim to hit the flat board. Ensure that you hit the board as many times as you can as it determines your progress.
- Aim at the ball and hit it while standing at least four feet from the target spot. This way, you will hit the ball more powerfully and probably hit the right spot. Standing too far will minimize your chances of making a perfect strike. Don’t stand too close either because you know touching the net while spiking is not allowed.
- Another tip you can successfully implement is mixing your shots. This will confuse your opponents, so they won’t know when you are spiking.
- Always keep an eye on the open spots in your opponent’s court. Know where they focus on the defense, so when you spike, the ball will land on their court effortlessly.
Conclusion
Now that you know the volleyball spike drills go ahead and fulfill your volleyball passion.
You will realize how easy it is to absorb most of these skills.
Just keep the passion as high and eventually, you will enjoy the game every time you head to the court.