Serve smarter: effective serving volleyball tips

A good serve is much more than just starting the rally. It’s a powerful weapon that allows us to put pressure on the opponent, force errors, and even score direct points. In this blog, we’ll take a look at the different types of serves in volleyball, discuss the tactical goals behind serving, and share practical tips to help you improve your serve.

The different types of serves

In volleyball, we typically distinguish four main types of serves:

The underhand serve
This serve is mostly seen at beginner level. The ball is hit from below with a swinging motion. It’s easy to execute but not very powerful. The focus is on control and consistency.

The overhead float serve
One of the most common serves at amateur level. The ball is struck with a firm, flat hand and little to no spin, causing it to “float” unpredictably through the air. It’s ideal for disrupting the opponent’s passing formation.

The topspin serve
Here we add topspin to the ball, making it travel fast over the net and drop quickly. It requires good timing and technique, but when mastered, it becomes a serious weapon.

The jump serve (jump float or jump topspin)
This explosive serve combines power with unpredictability. With a jump float, the ball is hit without spin, creating tricky float movements. With a jump topspin, heavy spin is applied for a sharp downward curve. Both variants demand good jumping ability, timing, and ball control.

Goals and tactics of the serve

A serve can have different purposes depending on your level and team strategy:

Getting the ball in play
At lower levels, the primary goal is consistency—just getting the ball over the net and into play.

Scoring a direct point
A well-placed float or powerful topspin can surprise the opponent and lead to an ‘ace’.

Disrupting the opponent’s attack
This is where serving becomes tactical:

• Serve to a weaker passer to force errors.
• Target a strong attacker, so they have to pass and are less effective in the attack.
• Aim for the approach lane of middle hitters to disrupt their timing.
• Serve behind the setter to force them into a difficult position and reduce their options.

With smart serving, we can take control of the rally before the ball even comes back over the net.

Drills for serving

Are you looking for drills to improve your serve? Check out our selection of exercises and start working on your serve today!

u18, Seniors

Run, Forrest, Run!

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u18, Seniors

Goal setting

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u18, Seniors

Match with a 2-point difference

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u18, Seniors

Net 5 (3 front-row players)

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Volleyball serving tips

Develop a consistent routine
A serving routine helps with focus and consistency. Whether it’s bouncing the ball a few times or taking a deep breath, repeating the same steps builds confidence.

Train variety
Mix up your serves: switch between float and topspin, short and deep, or change your target zone. Variation makes you unpredictable.

Serve with focus and purpose
Be task-oriented: look at the exact spot you want to serve to. Visual focus improves execution. Don’t just hit the ball—aim with intention.

Practice consistently
Repetition is key. Work on your technique, placement, and timing regularly. And remember: it’s okay to make mistakes. Being brave and learning from failure is more valuable than playing it safe.

Train with purpose at VolleyballXL

Want to improve your serve in a structured way? At VolleyballXL, we’ve developed specific serving drills and volleyball exercises for every type of serve and skill level. Whether you’re working on your basic technique or your tactical game plan, our training tools help you make real progress. Turn your serve into a true weapon—start training with VolleyballXL!