The block | Volleyball

Summary

In this video, you’ll learn the essential techniques for blocking in volleyball. The process involves three key steps: preparing by positioning yourself 30 cm from the net, jumping just after your opponent, and blocking with proper form. The block adapts based on the situation—defensively when you're late or facing a taller opponent, and offensively when the ball is close or you're taller than the opponent. A strong block destabilizes attacks, and it's important to control your body to avoid fouls. Proper footwork and technique are crucial to executing an effective block.

Takeaways

• 😀 Stand about 30 cm from the net and keep your feet parallel to your shoulders to prepare for an effective block.
• 😀 Use sidestepping or running along the net to position yourself closer to the opponent for a better block.
• 😀 Keep your legs slightly bent to stay ready for a jump when preparing for the block.
• 😀 Reach your arms up, keeping your forearms parallel to the net and hands at head height to begin the blocking process.
• 😀 Jump just after your opponent jumps to time your block effectively, pushing off with your legs and raising your arms.
• 😀 Focus on jumping vertically and keeping your head high while tracking the ball with your eyes.
• 😀 In the air, stretch your arms, open your hands, and spread your fingers to maximize the surface area for the block.
• 😀 If you're late to the jump or your opponent is taller, block defensively by pulling your hands back toward your head.
• 😀 For a more aggressive block, if the ball is close to the net or your opponent is smaller, push your arms forward into the opponent's court.
• 😀 Always avoid contact with the net and make sure to land on your front foot, gently bending your knees to absorb the impact.

Q & A

What is the first step in effectively blocking in volleyball?

The first step is to prepare by standing about 30 centimeters from the net. You should move towards your opponent by sidestepping or running along the net, keeping your feet parallel to your shoulders, and slightly bending your legs to be ready to jump.

How should your arms be positioned when preparing to block?

Your arms should be raised, with your forearms parallel to the net, and your hands at head height, ready for the jump.

When is the best time to initiate your jump for a block?

You should begin your jump just after your opponent jumps. This timing ensures you are in sync with their attack, giving you the best chance to block effectively.

What is the key to a successful block jump?

The key is to push with your legs and raise your arms simultaneously, jumping vertically while keeping your head high and your eyes focused on the ball.

How should your hands be positioned during the jump to maximize the block?

Your arms should stretch upwards, with your hands open and fingers spread to create the maximum surface area for the block.

What should you do if you're late to the block or your opponent is taller than you?

In this situation, you should block defensively by bringing your hands back toward your head, trying to slow down the ball's contact to retrieve it afterward.

What is the difference between a defensive and offensive block?

A defensive block is used when you're late or facing a taller opponent. You bring your hands back to slow the ball down. An offensive block is used when the ball is close to the net or when your opponent is smaller, and you push your body forward to enter their court with your hands and arms.

What is crucial to avoid when performing an offensive block?

It's important to control your form and avoid any contact with the net or entering the opponent's court, as this would result in a foul.

What should you do after landing from a block?

After landing, you should land on your front foot, uncurl your toes, and gently bend your knees to absorb the impact.

Why is blocking considered a crucial part of destabilizing an attack?

Blocking is one of the most effective ways to disrupt and destabilize an opponent's attack. By adapting your block based on the match situation, you can prevent successful attacks and gain control of the game.