How to Block in Volleyball Like a Pro: Best Techniques, Drills & Tips

Matt NikishinMatt Nikishin
4 min read

Blocking is one of the most powerful defensive tools in volleyball. A well-timed block can shut down the opposing team’s best hitter, swing momentum, and energize your entire squad. 🙌

Whether you're a middle blocker or pin player, strong blocking skills are essential to becoming a complete volleyball player.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

✅ Proper blocking form
✅ Timing and footwork
✅ Pro drills to level up your block

1. The Perfect Blocking Position

Volleyball players jumping to block a ball over the net during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics match.

A great block starts before you leave the ground. Your positioning sets the tone for everything else.

Key Blocking Stance Tips:

  • Feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent

  • Hands up at eye level, palms open and angled inward

  • Eyes on the setter and hitter

  • Core engaged and ready to spring

✅ Bonus Tip: Keep your arms relaxed—not stiff—so you can launch quickly and block more fluidly.

2. How to Read the Opponent’s Attack

Players in red jerseys attempt to block a volleyball at the net, while a player in a black jersey jumps to hit it during a competitive match.

Blocking isn’t just physical—it’s mental. Elite blockers anticipate where the ball is going before it’s hit.

How to Improve Reading Skills:

  • Watch the setter’s body and hand direction

  • Note the hitter’s approach angle and footwork

  • Track shoulder rotation and hitting arm motion

👀 Anticipation helps you move quicker and close the block with precision.

3. Jumping and Timing for a Strong Block

Players in white jerseys jump to block a volleyball at the net, as a player in a blue jersey attempts a spike. Spectators are visible in the background.

A successful block isn’t about jumping the highest—it’s about jumping at the right time.

Jump Timing Tips:

  • Time your jump just after the hitter begins their swing

  • Don’t jump on the toss—read the hitter, not the ball

  • Block with your hands, not your forearms

🔁 Practice blocking against both slow and quick sets to improve timing range.

4. Hand Position and Pressing Over the Net

A volleyball player in a white jersey prepares to spike the ball over the net while three players in blue jerseys attempt to block it.

Your hands are your first line of defense. Bad positioning = soft blocks or out-of-bounds touches.

Pro Hand Techniques:

  • Keep fingers wide and strong

  • Press over the net, not just up

  • Angle your hands to direct the ball back into the court

👋 Think “roof the hitter”—not just stop them!

5. Landing and Recovery

A volleyball match scene at the Paris 2024 Olympics shows a player in a blue jersey jumping to block the ball against an opponent in a red jersey at the net, with teammates and spectators in the background.

Don’t forget what happens after the block—good landings protect your body and keep you in the play.

Landing Tips:

  • Land on both feet, knees slightly bent

  • Re-center quickly and get ready for the next play

  • Avoid leaning into the net or over-rotating

Strong landing technique = fewer injuries and more opportunities for follow-up plays.

6. Best Blocking Drills to Improve Your Skills

Three volleyball players in red jerseys attempt to block a ball over the net, with "Paris 2024" and Olympic rings visible.

🏐 Must-Try Volleyball Blocking Drills:

Wall Block Drill (for technique)

  • Stand close to a wall, practice form, footwork, and hand motion

  • Focus on keeping your hands high and tight

Penetration Drill

  • Practice pressing over the net against a target

  • Great for improving hand position and net coverage

Eye-Tracking Drill

  • Partner sets and hits while you focus on reading cues

  • Trains anticipation and reaction

💥 Use these drills consistently to turn your block into a scoring weapon!

Watch This Tutorial Video To Improve Your Block

https://youtu.be/QRgANLdhOLU?feature=shared

7. Common Blocking Mistakes and How to Fix Them

A volleyball player in red prepares to spike the ball over the net, while two players in blue jump to block during a Paris 2024 Olympic match.

Even experienced players make blocking mistakes. Fixing them will elevate your game.

🚫 Common Errors:

  • Jumping too early – Stay patient, read the hitter

  • Hands too narrow or too low – Open wide and press over

  • Floating instead of pressing – Get aggressive and control the ball

  • Not closing the block – Always move with your teammate

🛠 Correct these errors with focused reps and feedback from coaches.

Conclusion: How to Master Blocking in Volleyball

Blocking isn’t just about athleticism—it’s about technique, timing, and teamwork. From reading the hitter’s approach to mastering your footwork, each detail can take your block from average to elite.

With the right drills and dedication, any volleyball player can become a defensive force at the net. 💪

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Written by

Matt Nikishin
Matt Nikishin