How to Jump Serve a Volleyball: 10 Steps
Jump serving is an advanced volleyball technique that can add power and speed to your serves. It combines the elements of a jump, an overhand serve, and a spike, making it difficult for the receiving team to predict its trajectory. Follow these 10 steps if you want to learn how to perform this powerful type of serve.
1. Get comfortable with basic serves: Before attempting a jump serve, make sure you are proficient in the fundamentals of volleyball serving, such as underhand and overhand serves.
2. Stand in the proper position: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, facing the net at the end of the serving area. Your non-dominant foot should be slightly in front of you.
3. Choose the right ball position: Hold the volleyball comfortably with both hands at chest level. Make sure that it is slightly higher than your hitting arm’s shoulder and positioned in front of your dominant shoulder.
4. Prepare your approach: Plan a three-step approach toward the sideline closest to your hitting arm. The steps should be quick and explosive, gradually increasing in pace – this will help elevate your body during the jump.
5. Execute the toss: As you take your first step, toss the ball upward with both hands. The ideal toss height depends on your skill level but generally should be about 2-3 feet above your highest reach.
6. Approaching and jumping: During your second step, move into a crouch with bent knees and hips while keeping an eye on the ball. Use this momentum to launch yourself into a vertical jump as you take your third step.
7. Swing and hit: While mid-air, bring your hitting arm back to draw power from behind you and create a L-shape with your elbow parallel to the ground. Then swing forward and use a strong wrist snap to contact the ball with force.
8. Aim for the ball’s back: As you make contact, aim to hit the ball towards its back instead of its center. This will allow for more spin and better control over the ball’s direction.
9. Follow through: After striking the ball, let your arm follow through naturally across your body. This will help maintain momentum in your swing and decrease the risk of injury.
10. Practice consistently: Like any new skill, mastering the jump serve takes time and consistent practice. Work on each component separately before attempting to combine them into a single movement.
By following these steps, you can learn how to jump serve a volleyball like a pro. Keep working on your technique, and don’t forget to enjoy the game!