Keys to an efficient spike in volleyball is having a great approach. I recommend a four-step approach for outsides and opposites. It is my opinion that a four-step approach is superior to a three-step because it allows you to gauge your timing easier, therefore I will not be providing advice on a three-step approach here.
4 Step Approach
First, a four-step approach should start from the base position. From here, you will take one small first step before you know the path of the set and the last three after you see where the set is going to go. The first step needs to be small and forward and needs to get you in motion.
If your first step is too large, you will have a hard time making last-minute adjustments. Furthermore, if you are taking a set that is out of the system (any pass that requires the setter to slow the tempo) or a non-setter set, your first step should be taken at the same time that the player has their hands on the ball, half a second later if you’re getting a set from a platform.
Your second step should take you in the direction of the ball, which is slightly bigger and gives you a bit of momentum. Your posture should still be mostly upright, arms relaxed by your sides. The second step will time you for fast sets. Having your weight dead-centered on your second for a fast set should get you to the ball on time*.
Your third and fourth steps should get you to the ball. They should be both your biggest and your quickest. A good step-close or your last two steps will give you both power and the correct positioning. The fourth step is the fastest and largest step of your approach. You should be at your lowest, fully loaded and ready to spring. Your arms are important to get you higher in the air, and it is important to use both your arms to do so. I will elaborate more on this in a later section.
Communicate With Your Setter
*This is a great tool for figuring out your timing and the speed/height that you need for your set. If you can confirm with your setter that you are on your second step, then it opens a line of communication between you and your setter for improvement. If it seemed like the set was low, were you late, or was the set too fast?
These are important things to keep in mind to help you on your journey and, furthermore, will create trust between you and your setter and pinpoint the exact error. Having a quick dialog with your setter about the tempo, height and your own approach will help you improve your game and also make your teammates better!
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