How to improve your volleyball attack

Improve your volleyball attack: Tips for greater effectiveness

A successful attack is one of the most decisive aspects of volleyball. Not only is it spectacular to watch, but it is also crucial for scoring points. As a volleyball coach, I often see the same challenges with attackers: they don’t jump high enough, hit the ball too low, or struggle to deal smartly with the opponent’s block. These issues are not uncommon, but they can cost your team many points. How do you ensure that your attackers peak at the right moments and play intelligently? Below are some practical tips that you can immediately apply in training and matches.

Focus on your approach

A powerful attack starts with a solid foundation: the approach. Make sure your approach maximizes your speed and power.

1. Three-step approach: The three-step approach is the standard in volleyball. Start with a calm first step to determine your direction, accelerate on the second step, and use the third step to jump explosively.
2. Arms as levers: Your arms play a crucial role in generating height and power. Swing them back forcefully during the approach and bring them forward powerfully for the jump.
3. Proper positioning: Always position your shoulders towards the ball. This gives you more control over your strike direction and makes it harder for the opponent to read you.
4. Starting position and approach direction: Ensure your starting position and approach direction clearly indicate your attack options. This makes you less predictable.
5. Speed and final steps: The speed of your approach and the last two steps determine how high or far you jump and in which direction you execute the attack.

Timing is everything

Timing determines the success of your attack. Jumping a fraction too early or too late can mean the difference between scoring or an easy defense for the opponent.

• Read the set: Pay close attention to how your setter plays the ball. Learn the patterns and speed of their sets so you can adjust your timing accordingly.
• Adapt to circumstances: Not every set is perfect. Stay flexible and adjust your timing if the ball is placed differently than expected.
• Train together: Spend extra time with your setter to develop good chemistry. This reduces the chance of miscommunication during critical moments. Check out setter drills to improve coordination with attackers.
• Jump with your arms: Actively use your arms while jumping. This provides extra height and power for your attack.

Vary your attack

A predictable attack makes it easy for the opponent. Ensure variety in your strikes to break through their defense.

1. Line vs diagonal: Alternate between a hard line shot and a sharp diagonal shot. This forces the defense to constantly adjust.
2. Use a tip ball: If the defense is positioned deep, a subtle tip ball just behind the block can be highly effective.
3. Back-row attack: Use back-row attacks to add an extra dimension to your game and bypass the block.
4. Rotate your hitting shoulder: By rotating your hitting shoulder away from the net, you increase the angles and options for your attack. Check out hitting drills to improve your hitting technique.

Work on your jump power

Jump power is an absolute gamechanger in volleyball. The higher you jump, the greater your chance of å slå above the block.

• Plyometrics for explosiveness: Add exercises like box jumps and squat jumps to your training routine to improve explosive power.
• Strong core: A stable core helps you stay balanced during jumps and landings.
• Periodic strength training: Exercises like squats and deadlifts strengthen your legs and provide a stronger jumping base.
• Hit from your core: Use the strength from your core when hitting to achieve maximum impact and control.

Analyze your attack technique

Improving your technique starts with awareness. Analyze your own game and ask for feedback from your coach or teammates.

• Use video analysis: By reviewing your own attacks, you gain insight into what goes well and what can be improved.
• Ask for feedback: Your coach and teammates can point out areas for improvement that you might overlook.
• Address specific weaknesses: Focus your training on the areas where you struggle, such as a particular angle or height.
• Timing and speed: Work on the speed of your approach and swing, as these ultimately determine the success of your attack.

Mental preparation

A strong mindset is just as important as physical strength. Being mentally prepared helps you perform optimally under pressure.

• Visualize your attack: Imagine yourself performing a perfect attack. This helps you feel more confident on the court.
• Stay positive: Making a mistake is inevitable. Learn from it and keep going without losing focus.
• Patience pays off: Sometimes you need to wait for the right opportunity to score. Don’t force anything and play tactically.

Team collaboration

An attack is never a solo performance. Good teamwork and communication are essential.

• Clear agreements: Discuss beforehand which set-ups and attack patterns you will use. This prevents misunderstandings.
• Outsmart blockers: Work with your setter to identify and exploit weak spots in the opponent’s block.
• Build trust within the team: The better the bond between teammates, the smoother the collaboration on the court.
• Always be available: Ensure that you are always available as an attacker for the setter. This provides your team with more options and makes you less predictable.

A strong volleyball attack requires more than just brute force. It’s a combination of technique, timing, strategy, and teamwork. By applying the tips mentioned and training consistently, you can significantly improve your game. Stay focused, be patient, and don’t forget to enjoy every step forward. To take your attack to the next level, VolleyballXL offers specialized attacking drills that focus on refining your technique, timing, and power. The moment you deliver the decisive attack in a crucial match will make all the effort more than worth it!