Cross Training: Pilates & Volleyball

Pilates helps volleyball players by strengthening the deep core, improving hip and shoulder mobility, and training balance and body control. Those qualities support jumping, landing, hitting and quick direction changes, and can help reduce injury risk.

Short Pilates routine for volleyball

ExerciseReps / benefit
The hundred100 pumps / core endurance
Single-leg stretch10 each side / core and hip control
Side-lying leg series10 each / hip stability for landings
Swan6 to 8 / back extension for hitting
Plank to pike8 / shoulder and core strength
Standing balance on one leg30 s each / ankle stability

How to fit it in

  • Two 20 to 30 minute sessions a week in the off-season.
  • One shorter session a week in season.
  • Use it as active recovery after hard practices.
  • Focus on control, not speed.
  • Work with a qualified instructor to learn the basics.

This article is general information, not medical advice. Check with a doctor or qualified professional before starting a new exercise program, especially if you have an injury or health condition.

Frequently asked questions

Can Pilates improve my vertical jump?

Indirectly, by improving core stability and control; jump training is still needed.

Is Pilates good for injury prevention?

It can help by improving balance, core strength and mobility.

Do I need equipment?

Mat Pilates needs only a mat; reformer classes add resistance.

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Sam Ayed
Sam Ayed

Sam Ayed is a soccer player, coach and lifelong sports enthusiast. As the editor of Sportmentary, he writes and reviews the site's guides, checks rules content against the official rulebooks of each sport's governing body, and keeps pages updated when those rules change.

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