Volleyball is not only played indoors. In open areas like the beach, this game comes in a more dynamic and challenging version, namely beach volleyball.
With a sand surface and changing weather conditions, beach volleyball offers a different and fun playing experience.
So, what exactly is beach volleyball and how do you play it? Check out the complete explanation in this article.
What Is Beach Volleyball?
Beach volleyball is a type of volleyball played on sand, typically at the beach or on a sand court. Unlike indoor volleyball, which is played by six people per team, beach volleyball consists of only two players on each team.
This game still uses the basic principles of volleyball, where players hit the ball over the net and into the opponent's court. However, the soft sand and outdoor conditions require different strength, agility, and strategy.
Basic Rules of Beach Volleyball
Even though it looks casual, beach volleyball has well-defined rules, especially in official matches. Here are some of the basic rules:
- Number of players: Each team consists of two players, with no substitutes allowed during play.
- Scoring system: Matches usually use a rally point system played to 21 points and must be won by at least two points.
- Number of touches: Each team can make a maximum of three touches before returning the ball to the opponent's court.
- Court and net: The court measures approximately 16 × 8 meters, which is smaller than an indoor volleyball court. The net height varies depending on the competition category.
- Environmental factors: This game is played outdoors, so wind, heat, and sand conditions present unique challenges.
Basic Techniques of Beach Volleyball
To play well, there are several basic techniques that need to be mastered by every player. The first technique is the serve, which is the initial hit to start the game and an opportunity to put pressure on the opponent right from the start.
Next is passing, which is used to receive the ball from a service or an opponent's attack so that it can be well-controlled. Stable passing will make it easier for the team to build an attack.
The next technique is the set or pass, which aims to position the ball ideally for a smash hit. Passing accuracy highly determines the success of an attack.
In addition, there is the smash (spike) technique, which is a hard hit to score points by dropping the ball into the opponent's area. Finally, there is blocking, which is used to withstand the opponent's attack near the net.
Because beach volleyball is played with only two players per team, each player must be able to perform all of these techniques effectively.
Benefits of Playing Beach Volleyball
In addition to being fun, beach volleyball also provides various health benefits:
- Improving body fitness: Playing on sand requires greater energy, thereby helping to increase stamina and muscle strength.
- Training balance and coordination: The unstable sand surface forces the body to work harder to maintain balance.
- Burning more calories: Activities on sand tend to be more intense compared to those on hard surfaces, so calorie burning is more optimal.
- Improving teamwork: With only two players, communication and cooperation become the main keys in the game.
- Helping reduce stress: Playing on the beach with an open atmosphere and fresh air can provide a relaxing effect.
Beach Volleyball Tips for Beginners
If you are interested in trying beach volleyball, here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Wear Comfortable Clothing Suitable for the Weather
Choose clothing that is lightweight, absorbs sweat, and does not restrict movement so you remain free when playing on the sand. The right material also helps the body stay cool even when playing under the sun.
2. Warm Up Before Playing
Warming up is important to prepare your muscles and joints before physical activity. Simple movements like stretching or light jogging can help reduce the risk of injury during the game.
3. Use Sunglasses or a Hat
Direct sunlight exposure can disturb vision and cause fast fatigue. Using protection like sunglasses or a hat can help you stay focused during the game.
4. Focus on Communication with Your Teammate
Because each team has only two players, cooperation is essential in beach volleyball. Good communication helps players coordinate better when receiving the ball or executing an attack.
5. Start with a Casual Game
For beginners, it is best to start with a casual game to understand the rhythm and basic techniques. Once you are used to it, you can increase the intensity and try playing in more competitive matches.
Beach volleyball is a physical activity that is not only exciting to play, but also provides many benefits for body health.
By understanding the rules, basic techniques, and how to play it, you can enjoy this game to the maximum, both for recreation and routine exercise.
To keep your performance optimal while playing beach volleyball, you need to stay properly hydrated. Activities under the scorching sun and on the sand can cause the body to lose fluids more quickly.
For that, make sure you always bring quality drinking water like AQUA and get into the habit of drinking before, during, and after playing.
You can choose AQUA bottle because its packaging is practical to carry when active outside the home, especially when exercising. AQUA is Naturally Fresh and AQUA is Cool, making it suitable to accompany you while playing beach volleyball under the hot sun.
Why must it be #AQUADULU? Because not all water is AQUA. AQUA comes from selected mountains whose springs are protected through 9 selection criteria, 5 stages, and a minimum of 1 year of research on more than 600 parameters.
AQUA is cool without being chilled and is able to help maintain body fluid needs during activities. Not only that, AQUA also comes with the AQUA 100% Untung program which offers various interesting prizes.
You only need to find the unique code under the cap of an AQUA gallon, then collect points to redeem a variety of exciting prizes.
So, besides getting used to a healthy life by drinking quality mineral water, you also have the opportunity to get additional benefits with the Healthy AQUA Family program. AQUA is 100% Pure, 100% Indonesian, and 100% Halal.
