The Influence of Jump Height and Hand Strength on Volleyball Smash Accuracy

Abstract

Smash accuracy is a determining factor in determining attacking success in volleyball. Research Problem: Field observations indicate that students' smash accuracy remains suboptimal, thought to be related to inadequate jump height and hand strength, however, studies specifically examining these two physical components in relation to smash accuracy among extracurricular volleyball players at the school level are still limited, so their contribution is poorly understood. Research Objective: This study aims to analyze the effect of jump height and hand strength on smash accuracy of extracurricular volleyball students. Method: A quantitative causal-associative design was used with a total sampling technique involving 34 students as the population and sample. Jump height was measured using Vertical Jump MD, hand strength using a handgrip dynamometer, and smash accuracy through the target zone smash test. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression at a significance level of 0.05, preceded by classical assumption tests (normality, multicollinearity, and heteroscadasticity). Results: Jump height did not show a significant effect on smash accuracy (B=-0.040; t=-0.224; p=0.825), nor did hand strength (B=0.187; t=0.935; p=0.357). Simultaneously, both variables did not have a significant effect on smash accuracy (F=0.793; p=0.462), with an R² of only 0.049, explaining 4.9% of the variance. Conclusion: Physical capacity alone, either with jump height or hand strength, is not enough to guarantee smash accuracy without adequate timing and ball contact technique. Coaches are advised to integrate technical-tactical training, such as hand-eye coordination and timing drills, along with physical conditioning to improve smash accuracy in extracurricular athletes.