Drill: blocking the ball

In this video, you will learn how to stop the ball from crossing over the net.

We are going to see two exercises: blocking, and moving and blocking.

Let's start with blocking.

Position yourself approximately 30cm from the net.

Your partner stands on the other side of the court, near to the net facing you and stood on top of a bench or a similar support.

Make sure the bench or chosen support is adequately stable.

Your partner throws the ball in front of them and spikes it as it falls down towards the net.

You must jump to block the ball and stop it from crossing over.

Adapt the timing of your jump according to the attacker's spike and the movement of the ball.

Don't forget to control your landing in order to avoid touching the net or falling awkwardly.

Repeat the drill several times to master the movements of the block.

Next, moving to block the ball.

Move yourself along the net two metres to the right of your partner.

He or she will stay in the same position as for the previous exercise.

This time, in order to block, you must move towards your partner with quick feet or running before jumping.

Adapt the timing of your movement to the spike

Start this exercise again but moving instead two metres to the left.

Repeat the drill several times before swapping roles.

Over to you!