To hit a volleyball with your forearm, which is commonly referred to as a forearm pass or bump, you need to position yourself correctly and make contact with the right part of your arms.
Based on the provided reference, here is the essential method:
- Get underneath the ball: Position your body so you are directly beneath the path of the approaching volleyball.
- Make contact: Hit the ball with your forearms, specifically just above your wrists.
- Avoid swinging: Instead of using a large swinging motion with your arms, let the ball bounce off your forearms.
Understanding the Forearm Pass Technique
The forearm pass is a fundamental skill in volleyball used primarily to receive serves or attack hits. The goal is usually to direct the ball upwards and towards your team's setter.
Here are key aspects to remember when executing a forearm pass:
- Preparation:
- Get low by bending your knees and hips.
- Keep your feet shoulder-width apart or slightly wider for balance.
- Form a platform with your forearms. There are different ways to join your hands, but common methods include clasping one hand over the other, interlocking fingers, or placing fists together. The goal is to create a flat, stable surface with the meaty part of your forearms.
- Execution (Based on Reference):
- Move to get underneath the ball.
- Make contact with your forearms just above your wrists.
- Instead of performing a swinging motion, let the ball bounce. (Note: While the reference states "let the ball bounce," in practice, this often implies absorbing the ball's force and directing it, rather than a passive bounce. The key is avoiding a wild swing).
- Extend your legs slightly as you make contact to help generate power and direct the ball.
- Follow Through:
- Continue pointing your forearms towards your target after contact.
- Maintain balance.
Using your forearms above the wrists creates the largest and most consistent surface area for contacting the ball accurately. Avoiding a swinging motion helps maintain control and reduces the chance of hitting the ball inaccurately or out of bounds. The power for the pass comes primarily from your legs and hips, not a violent arm swing.
