Improving Your Attack.

Why power isn't the answer

Most beginners think a good spike is about hitting as hard as possible. In reality it's about timing, placement and contacting the ball at the right point. A ball placed with good technique is often harder to defend than one that's simply hit hard.

"I always hit as hard as I could — until I learned a well-placed ball scores a lot more often."

Mistake 1 — Jumping too early or too late

Many beginners jump at the wrong moment, hitting the ball at an unfavourable point — too low, or just after the top of their jump.

The fix: practise your approach separately from the jump. Count your steps out loud during training until the rhythm becomes automatic.

Mistake 2 — Contacting the ball with a bent arm

A bent arm produces little power and control, and increases the risk of hitting the net.

The fix: fully extend your arm at contact. Hit the ball at the highest point of your jump, not after it.

Mistake 3 — Not looking at the court

Many players focus so hard on the ball that they forget where the defence is standing.

The fix: take a quick glance at the court during your approach to see where the open space is. This only needs to take a split second.

The best drill

Have a setter feed you balls from different positions. Focus on:

• A consistent approach and jump timing
• A fully extended arm at contact
• Placing the ball deliberately instead of just hitting hard

After a few training sessions your attack will already feel far more controlled.