
How does one underhand serve in volleyball? Mastering the art of the underhand serve in volleyball can be your secret weapon on the court. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned player looking to improve your skills, understanding the mechanics and techniques of this serve is crucial.
Even though underhand serves are usually for beginners, we understand that they can sometimes be difficult for both people trying to learn the game, and for people who regularly overhand serve and have forgotten the basics of the underhand serve.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve deep into the world of underhand serves, breaking down the fundamentals, offering expert tips, and helping you perfect your technique. By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to step onto the volleyball court with the confidence to deliver accurate and effective underhand serves that will keep your opponents guessing.
The Art of the Underhand Serve in Volleyball: A Step-by-Step Guide

The underhand serve, also known as the underhand or underhand pass, is a fundamental skill in volleyball. While it may seem straightforward, perfecting this serve requires a combination of technique, timing, and practice. Let’s break it down into easy-to-follow steps:
Step 1: The Ready Position
Before you even think about serving, start in the correct stance. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. This balanced posture will enable quick movements and solid serves.
Step 2: Grip the Ball
Hold the volleyball with your non-dominant hand, using an open hand technique. Your fingers should be spread wide, with your thumb pointing down. Rest the ball in the palm of your hand, supporting its weight.
Step 3: Target Selection
Identify your target on the other side of the net. Whether you’re aiming for a specific spot or trying to keep your opponents off-balance, focus on your target to maintain accuracy.
Step 4: Body Positioning
Shift your weight to your back foot while keeping your body forward. This position allows you to generate power and control.
Step 5: Contact Point
The key to a successful underhand serve is the contact point. Swing your serving arm back while keeping your eye on the ball and your non-dominant hand steady. Your striking hand should be open, with your fingers together.
Step 6: The Serve
Here’s where it all comes together. Swing your serving arm forward, making contact with the ball as your arm moves upward. The contact should be clean and smooth, creating a soft, controlled trajectory.
Step 7: Follow Through
As you make contact with the ball, extend your arm toward your target. The follow-through is essential for directing the ball accurately and maintaining control.
Common Mistakes to Avoid

Now that you have the basic steps, let’s explore some common mistakes that can hinder your underhand serve:
1. Inconsistent Contact: The underhand serve requires a consistent and clean contact with the ball. Hitting the ball off-center or with your palm can result in unpredictable trajectories.
2. Poor Timing: Timing is crucial for a successful underhand serve. Serving too early or too late can lead to errors in your technique and accuracy.
3. Lack of Focus: Maintaining focus on your target is vital. Without a clear target in mind, your serves may lack accuracy and intention.
4. Inadequate Follow-Through: Neglecting the follow-through can result in loss of control. Make sure to extend your arm toward your target after contact.
5. Overly Aggressive: While power is essential, an overly aggressive approach can lead to serves that are too hard to control. Balance power with precision.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Underhand Serve

Now that you understand the basics and know what to avoid, let’s dive into some pro tips to take your underhand serve to the next level:
1. Practice Regularly: Like any skill in volleyball, practice makes perfect. Dedicate time to underhand serves during your training sessions. Repeated practice helps to build muscle memory and improve your consistency.
2. Focus on Consistency: Consistency is key to mastering the underhand serve. Strive for repeated, controlled serves rather than occasional powerful ones. Consistency not only ensures accuracy but also keeps your opponents guessing.
3. Develop a Routine: Establish a pre-serve routine that helps you get into the right mindset and position before serving. Routines can help calm nerves and maintain focus during games.
4. Observe Your Target: Keep your eye on your target throughout your serving motion. This will improve your accuracy and help you adjust if needed. Being mindful of your target is essential, especially during high-pressure situations.
5. Work on Timing: Timing is a skill that can be honed. Practice serves with a focus on your timing to ensure a clean contact with the ball. Proper timing ensures that your serve goes where you intend it to.
6. Master Ball Control: Controlling the ball’s speed and trajectory is crucial. Experiment with different degrees of power and finesse during your practice sessions. This will allow you to adjust your serves based on the game situation.
7. Use Your Legs: While the underhand serve primarily involves the arms, incorporating your legs can add power and control. Bend your knees slightly as you serve and use your legs to help generate momentum.
8. Stay Calm Under Pressure: Serving under pressure can be challenging. Practice serves in pressure situations during practice to build mental resilience. Learning to stay calm during crucial moments is an invaluable skill.
Final Tips
The underhand serve in volleyball is a fundamental skill that every player should master. It’s not just about getting the ball over the net; it’s about precision, control, and consistency. By following the steps outlined in this guide and incorporating pro tips into your training routine, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a proficient underhand server.
Remember, practice is the key to improvement, so hit the court, focus on your technique, and watch your underhand serves become a formidable weapon in your volleyball arsenal. Whether you’re playing in a casual backyard game or a competitive match, your newfound skills will make you a valuable asset to your team. So, serve it up with confidence and make your mark on the court!
Check out some other volleyball basics to get started playing now!
Photo credits from Flickr: Nathan Rupert, Chris Michaels, Jen, Craig Fildes