Attack guide
Approach, timing, shots and positions
SLOW APPROACH → FAST → POWER STEP → CLOSING → VERTICAL JUMP → ARM EXTENDED FORWARD → WRIST SNAP
Power comes from the full kinetic chain, not the arm alone. A well-timed approach with fast last two steps generates 70% of final power.
The 5 phases of the spike
Approach footwork
- Step 1 (left) : Short directional step, oriented toward the attack
- Step 2 (right) : Power step — long and low, heel first, center of gravity drops
- Step 3 (left) : Closing step — short, brakes horizontal momentum and converts it into vertical
- Step 1 (right) : Observation step, slow tempo
- Step 2 (left) : Acceleration
- Step 3 (right) : Power step — the most important, long and low
- Step 4 (left) : Closing step parallel to the net
Timing by set type
Attack types by position
The foundation of learning to attack. The outside hitter receives the largest volume of sets — the setter's "safety" option. Approach at 45° from the left.
- ▸4-step approach at ~45° relative to the net
- ▸Takeoff 30-50 cm from the net
- ▸"Hut" set (high 3rd tempo) or "Go" (fast 2nd tempo)
- ▸Jump VERTICALLY — not toward the net
- ▸Contact slightly in front of the hitting shoulder
- ▸Cross-court (diagonal)
- ▸Line shot (sideline)
- ▸Cut shot (sharp angle <3 m)
- ▸Tip
- ▸Roll shot (topspin off-speed)
Special attacks
IDENTICAL approach to the spike (disguise is crucial), then at contact slow the arm and place the ball with a fingertip touch. Direction: empty zone identified BEFORE the jump.
Reduced-speed contact (~50-70%) with heavy topspin so the ball drops short behind the block. Harder to read than the tip because it's faster.
Sharp angle toward zone 1 (from 4) or zone 5 (from 2). Finish with thumb down, hand cutting laterally across the ball. Hit the side of the ball, not the top.
Intentionally push the ball out off the block. On a tight set, jump vertically and push the ball laterally using the blocker's outside hand as a "rail".