Little self-sets

What you need

Players

1 player

Time

3 to 6 min

Level

Beginner and intermediate

Equipment

Ball

Ball fed by

Not needed

Space

A clear room

Ages

8+

Setup

1. A clear spot with nothing breakable nearby. Low sets are fine indoors.
2. Feet shoulder width apart, one foot a little ahead, one ball.
3. Toss to start, then set it straight up, low, over and over.

How it runs

Little sets straight up to yourself, only a forearm or so above the hands, without moving the feet. The low height makes it safe indoors and forces quick, soft hands. Count the sets in a row, catch, and go again.

Time and reps: 3 rounds of 1 minute, count the sets in a row, 30 s rest.

Coaching points

• Hands up early in the window above your forehead.
• Little sets, soft hands: the ball barely goes above your hands.
• Push with your legs and arms together, then reload.
• Meet the ball in the same spot every time.

Ways to change it

• Easier: set, catch, reset (age 8 to 10: 5 in a row is a win).
• Harder: 20 in a row without moving your feet, then 50.
• Harder: kneel or sit on the floor and set from there.

Make it easier or harder

Make it easier

• Catch the ball after every set until the hands feel steady.

Make it harder

• Go for 20 in a row, then sit on the floor and keep going.

Terms on this page

Setting window

The triangle your thumbs and pointer fingers make above your forehead. You set the ball by pushing it up from there.

Safety at home