Blocking

Start your block at the net with your knees bent. The hands should be up with the forearms parallel to the net and the fingers wide. When you jump, snake your arms over then net, making sure to minimise the space between your arms and the net at all times. This prevents the ball from coming down on your side. Be careful not to touch the net! As the ball is being struck by the attacker you want to make sure to:

• flex your abdominals like you are being punched in the stomach
• flex your shoulders
• point your thumbs to the ceiling and keep your fingers stiff
• keep your eyes open

These points will keep your block strong and allow you to see what the opposing player is doing (ie. look out for a tip). Remember that a penetrating block is more effective than a high one - it takes away more of the court from the attacker.