Many people are surprised to learn that using your feet to play volleyball is not a foul. While it’s common knowledge that soccer allows the use of the head, few realize that volleyball also permits using the feet. Historically, using the feet in volleyball was not allowed, but current volleyball rules explicitly state that contact with the ball using the feet is not a violation. However, many players are not accustomed to using their feet. So, what are the proper techniques for playing volleyball? Let’s explore this topic in detail.
1. Can You Use Your Feet in Volleyball?
According to current volleyball rules, it is permissible to use your feet to hit the ball.
The rules of volleyball have been continuously refined over time:
- Before 1992: Players were only allowed to hit the ball above the waist. Contact below the waist was considered a foul.
- 1992 Barcelona Olympics: The rules were updated to allow the ball to be hit with areas from the waist to above the knee. Thigh touches were considered valid.
- 1995 FIVB Congress: The rules were further expanded to allow the ball to touch any part of the body, including the feet.
2. Is Playing Volleyball with Your Feet Really Allowed?
Most Players Avoid Using Their Feet
Players typically don’t deliberately use their feet unless the ball happens to fall near their foot or hits their foot by accident. While defending, some players instinctively use their feet, and many coaches even recommend practicing this skill, as the foot has a longer reach than the hand. However, players are more accustomed to using their hands, as other sports like table tennis, badminton, and basketball rarely involve the use of feet.
Hands Are More Effective Than Feet
Human hand nerves are more sensitive, allowing for more precise control compared to the feet. While feet can cover a larger defensive range, they are slower to react, making it harder to control the ball’s trajectory and potentially losing a good opportunity. Switching between using feet and hands during gameplay can also feel unnatural. Therefore, players typically use their feet only when the ball is out of reach of their hands.
3. Correct Techniques for Playing Volleyball
Arm Placement Method
After preparing in the correct posture, the player locks their hands together and uses their fingers to guide the ball. Let the ball roll from the wrists toward the forearm, stopping 5–10 cm above the wrist on the forearm. Simultaneously, clamp the arms tightly and push upward while pressing down with the wrists. Hold the ball steady for 30 seconds to practice the bumping posture.
Self-Toss and Bump
Begin in a ready stance and toss the ball upward. Quickly tuck your chest, clamp the arms, and straighten the elbows while locking the hands together and pressing down the wrists. As the ball falls, bump it straight upward to a height of about 1 meter above your head.
Clap-and-Bump Method
Follow the same steps as in “Self-Toss and Bump,” but add a clap after each bump. You can increase the number of claps (e.g., 2–5) before bumping again.
High-Low Bump Practice
Toss the ball and alternate between bumping it high (3–4 meters above your head) and low (1 meter above your head).
Wall Bump Practice
Stand 4–5 meters away from a wall, squat, and toss the ball against the wall. As the ball rebounds, bump it again, repeating the process continuously.
By practicing these methods, players can improve their control, accuracy, and overall volleyball technique.
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