Volley technique: drills for contact and control

What this lesson covers

This lesson presents five drills to improve volley preparation and contact point. The first drill uses a stick held across the chest to prevent excessive backswing and ensure the arms stay away from the body. This promotes early preparation and a compact push motion rather than a swing.

The second and third drills focus on the role of the non-dominant arm. Catching a ball with the left hand before hitting with the right creates a consistent contact point in front of the body. Keeping both elbows high ensures the racket face stays stable and the ball trajectory remains controlled. The non-dominant arm acts as a counterbalance, preventing the player from hitting the ball upward.

The final drills use a ball tucked into the armpit to maintain a compact separation between the arm and the torso. The goal is to keep the arm close during preparation and extend fully only at the moment of impact. These exercises help players transition from a compact preparation to a long follow-through, ensuring the ball is directed downward over the net.