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Volleyball Spike Jump Height: What You Need to Know

Learn about vertical jump requirements for volleyball spiking. Includes benchmarks for different levels and positions.

Volleyball player jump serve action
January 13, 2026
2 min read
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Measure Vertical

Volleyball Net Heights

Men's net: 7 feet 11 5/8 inches (243 cm)

Women's net: 7 feet 4 1/8 inches (224 cm)

To spike effectively, you need to contact the ball well above the net—typically 1-2 feet above for a powerful attack.

Vertical Jump Benchmarks

Recreational/High School:

  • Men: 20-26 inches (51-66 cm)
  • Women: 16-22 inches (41-56 cm)
  • College Level:

  • Men: 28-34 inches (71-86 cm)
  • Women: 22-28 inches (56-71 cm)
  • Professional/Olympic:

  • Men: 34-40+ inches (86-102+ cm)
  • Women: 28-34+ inches (71-86+ cm)
  • Position Differences

    Outside Hitters: Need the highest verticals for attacking from the pins.

    Middle Blockers: Require quick, repeated jumps more than maximum height.

    Setters: Benefit from good verticals for dump attacks and blocking.

    Liberos: Vertical jump is less critical since they don't attack at the net.

    Approach Jump vs. Block Jump

    Volleyball uses two types of jumps:

    Approach jump: 3-4 step approach for attacking. This is your maximum vertical.

    Block jump: Quick, reactive jump from a standing or shuffle position. Typically 4-8 inches lower than approach jump.

    Training Focus

    Volleyball players benefit from:

  • Approach jump training (sport-specific)
  • Repeated jump ability (multiple jumps in succession)
  • Quick reactive jumps for blocking
  • Landing mechanics for injury prevention
  • Disclaimer

    This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results may vary. Consult a qualified professional before starting any training program.

    Sources

    • Physical Characteristics of Elite Volleyball Players - Journal of Sports Sciences
    • Volleyball Net Heights - FIVB

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    Table of Contents
    • Volleyball Net Heights
    • Vertical Jump Benchmarks
    • Position Differences
    • Approach Jump vs. Block Jump
    • Training Focus
    Measure Vertical
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