Mirror Blocking Footwork

Partners face each other across the net; one moves along the net and the other mirrors them, then both jump to “block” at each stop.

Focus

Blocking footwork and a stable jump

Level

Beginner

Players

2 per section of net

Equipment

A net (ball optional)

Time

5–8 min

Bird’s-eye view: the leader moves along the net and the blocker mirrors every step.

📍 Setup

Two players face each other across the net, starting in the middle.

🪜 How to run it

1. The leader (on one side) shuffles or crossover-steps along the net.
2. The follower mirrors every step, staying directly opposite.
3. When the leader stops and jumps, both jump and press their hands over the net, without touching it.
4. Land on two feet, ready to move again.
5. Switch leader every 30 seconds.

🏆 Scoring

The leader scores if the follower jumps more than half a body width away or touches the net.

⚠️ Safety: Keep feet out from under the net — landing on a partner’s foot is the most common way to roll an ankle.

🧑‍🏫 Coaching this drill

What success looks like

The follower arrives before the leader jumps and goes straight up, hands crossing the net.

Coaching cues

Common mistakes

• Drifting sideways in the air. Fix: Plant both feet facing the net before jumping.
• Touching the net. Fix: Start the jump about an arm’s length from the net and press the hands over, not the body.

When to move on

When the follower matches 10 stops in a row, move on to blocking a hitter on a box.