Arm Swing Basics
Attacking
Legend
- player
- ball
- movement path
How it works
Teach beginners the basic arm swing motion by throwing overhand at a wall target without a net.
What you need
- volleyball
- wall or target
Your focus
The volleyball arm swing is identical in mechanics to an overhand throw, making wall practice the safest and most accessible introduction to attacking. Young players build motor patterns for the high-elbow contact position without the pressure of an approach or net. USA Volleyball IMPACT recommends isolating arm swing before adding footwork.
Mark a target on the wall at 8-foot height (approximate net height for age group).
Player stands 10 feet from the wall in a staggered stance, non-dominant foot forward.
Player draws elbow back high (like pulling a bow), then swings through, snapping wrist forward and contacting the ball at the highest point they can reach.
Ball should strike the wall target. Player catches the rebound.
Complete 10 throws, focusing on high elbow and full wrist snap. Rest and repeat for 3 sets.
Goal
You've got it when your throw snaps through and hits the target on the wall, your arm swings all the way through, not stopping at contact.
Helpful cues
- Elbow up high before you swing
- Reach, don't swing, for the ball
- Snap your wrist at contact for topspin
Adjust the challenge
Make it easier
Strip it back
Use a foam or soft training ball.
UpLVL it
Add the next challenge
Step back to 15 feet and aim for a smaller target.No account needed
Build a practice plan
Add drills, keep the plan in this browser, then share a link with your staff or parents.This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.
This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.After every practice, UpLVL automatically surfaces the drills each player needs to work on most. See it for yourself.