The underhand serve in volleyball is one of the most critical aspects of the volleyball game. Underhand service requires professional techniques, strengths, strategies, and skills. The underhand serve is one of the most fundamental yet effective serves in volleyball.
Whether you’re a beginner learning the basics of volleyball servings or an experienced volleyball player looking to improve control and accuracy, mastering your underhand serving accuracy, then this guide will help you.
This comprehensive article will guide you on every aspect of the underhand service. At the end of reading this, you’ll learn the techniques and tips that will help you achieve a consistent and effective underhand serve.
What is an Underhand Serve in Volleyball?
In volleyball, an underhand serve is a serving technique where the player swings their arm from below the waist, striking the ball to send it over the net. Unlike the overhand serve, which involves tossing the ball high and using a downward arm swing, the underhand serve uses a smooth, controlled movement that is accessible for players of all skill levels. This technique is especially helpful for beginners and those looking to develop accuracy and consistency before advancing to more challenging serves.
How to Execute the Underhand Serve Step-by-Step
Executing a perfect underhand serve requires mastering a few key steps. Below is a breakdown to help you achieve consistent, accurate underhand serves:
Step 1. Positioning
Stand behind the baseline with your feet shoulder-width apart. If you’re right-handed, place your left foot slightly forward for balance. Left-handed players should reverse the stance.
Step 2. Hold the ball correctly.
Hold the volleyball in your non dominant hand, keeping it steady and at waist level. Your hand should be open, supporting the ball from underneath.
Step 3. Arm Swing Preparation
With your dominant hand, bring your arm back as if you’re preparing to swing forward. This motion should be natural and relaxed to build momentum.
Step 4. Focus on the ball
Keep your eyes on the ball and visualize the point of contact. Aim to hit the ball with the flat part of your palm for better control.
Step 5. Swing and Contact
Swing your arm forward in a smooth motion, striking the ball with the heel or center of your palm. Aim to make contact with the ball at waist level, keeping your swing straight and controlled to avoid misdirection.
Step 6. Follow Through
After striking the ball, let your arm naturally follow through. This helps control the direction and prevents jerky or unpredictable movements.
Step 7. Aim and Adjust
A well-placed underhand serve can be strategically directed towards weaker opponents or open areas. Practice aiming your serve to add precision to your gameplay.
See Also: Digging in Volleyball: Skills, Techniques, and Guide on How to Dig in Volleyball
Tips for Improving Your Underhand Serve
Even though the underhand serve is one of the simpler serves, perfecting it requires a lot of practice. Here are some professional tips to enhance your underhand serving skills:
- Use Your Legs: While the underhand serve doesn’t require a powerful jump, bending your knees and pushing slightly upward as you swing can help provide a little extra lift and control.
- Focus on Consistency Over Power: Avoid the temptation to hit the ball too hard. Focus on making controlled contact and getting the ball over the net.
- Practice Ball Placement: Experiment with different placements, aiming your serves to the left, right, or center of the court. Target weaker players on the opposing team to increase your serving effectiveness.
- Increase Your Reach with Follow-Through: A smooth follow-through will help guide the ball in the desired direction and minimize errors. Avoid stopping your arm abruptly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with the Underhand Serve
Even though the underhand serve is straightforward, many players make mistakes that reduce its effectiveness. Here’s a list of common mistakes and tips on how to correct them:
1. Don’t Hold the Ball Too High.
Many beginners tend to hold the ball too high, which can lead to inaccurate serves. Always hold the ball at waist level for better control.
2. Maintain a consistent arm swing.
An inconsistent arm swing can cause the ball to veer off course. Focus on a smooth, consistent motion from backswing to follow-through.
3. Avoid Poor Follow-Through
Failing to follow through leads to unpredictable serves. Ensure your arm motion continues naturally after contact with the ball.
4. Avoid incorrect body alignment.
If your body isn’t aligned with your target, the ball may not go in the desired direction. Keep your shoulders square and aim your body towards your target area.
See Also: 7 Types of Passes in Volleyball
Volleyball Drills to Improve Underhand Serve
Drills can significantly improve your underhand serve by helping you develop accuracy, control, and consistency. Here are some effective drills to add to your practice routine:
1. Wall Serves Drill: Underhand serve in volleyball Drills
Stand a few feet away from a wall and practice hitting the ball against it with an underhand serve. Aim for specific targets to improve accuracy.
2. Target Practice Drill: Underhand serve in volleyball Drills
Set up cones or markers on the opposite side of the net and try to aim your serves at each target. This drill improves ball placement and helps you develop the habit of targeting specific areas.
3. Partner Feedback Drill: Underhand serve in volleyball Drills
Pair up with a teammate and serve back and forth to each other. Ask your partner to provide feedback on your serving technique, especially your follow-through and body positioning.
4. Consistency Challenge
Aim to serve the ball over the net as many times as possible without making an error. This drill improves consistency and builds confidence in your serving ability.
Comparing Underhand Serve with Other Serving Techniques
In volleyball, different serves have unique advantages and challenges. Here’s a quick comparison between the underhand serve, overhand serve, and jump serve:
| Serve Type | Power | Accuracy | Recommended for |
| Underhand Serve | Low | High | Beginners, controlled placements |
| Overhand Serve | Medium to High | Moderate | Intermediate players, fast-paced games |
| Jump Serve | High | Moderate | Advanced players, offensive setups |
The underhand serve provides high accuracy and is easier to control than the other serves, making it ideal for beginners and players aiming to minimize serving errors.
See Also: Volleyball for Kids: Benefits, Basic rules, and Age to Start
When to Use the Underhand Serve in a Game
Knowing when to use the underhand serve can be just as important as executing it properly. Below are some volleyball situations where you can apply the underhand serve technique:
- If you need a reliable serve to avoid serving errors, the underhand serve is a great option.
- The underhand serve can be directed at weaker receivers, increasing the chances of a successful rally.
- The simplicity of the underhand serve makes it a reliable choice during high-stakes moments in a game.
- If you’re recovering from an error or just need to build up your serving rhythm, an underhand serve can help re-establish your confidence.
Conclusion
The underhand serve is one of the foundational skills in volleyball. You will always learn this as beginners. Underhand serving is beneficial for players of all levels. Unlike more complex serve techniques, underhand serving focuses on control and consistency.