Fundamental sports skills
The core skills behind each sport — what they are, why they matter and how to begin developing them.
Browse skills
Each entry is cross-linked to the sports it belongs to and the terms around it.
Balance
The skill of keeping the body stable and controlled while still or moving.
Ball control
The skill of receiving and settling the ball quickly so it is ready to use.
Bike handling
The skill of balancing, steering and controlling a bike confidently in different conditions.
Blocking
The skill of using the hands or body to stop or slow an opponent’s attack.
Breaststroke
A swimming stroke using a symmetrical arm sweep and a frog-like kick, with the head lifting to breathe.
Breathing
The skill of controlling the breath rhythmically to sustain effort and stay relaxed.
Catching
The skill of cleanly securing a ball travelling through the air or off the ground.
Core stability
The skill of engaging the trunk muscles to keep the body strong and controlled through movement.
Digging
The volleyball skill of controlling a hard-driven ball low to keep it in play.
Dribbling
The skill of moving with the ball under close control to beat opponents or keep possession.
Footwork
The skill of moving efficiently around the playing area to be in position for each shot or action.
Front crawl
The fastest swimming stroke, using alternating arm pulls and a flutter kick while face-down.
Heading
The skill of directing the ball with the head to pass, clear or attempt to score.
Jumping
The skill of leaping powerfully and with timing to reach or contest the ball in the air.
Marking
The defensive skill of staying close to an opponent to limit their space and options.
Net play
The skill of controlling points close to the net with volleys and touch shots.
Pacing
The skill of managing effort and speed so it lasts the whole distance or event.
Passing
The skill of moving the ball to a teammate accurately to keep possession and create chances.
Pedalling
The skill of turning the pedals smoothly and at an efficient rhythm on a bike.
Rallying
The skill of exchanging shots back and forth to build and win a point.
Rebounding
The basketball skill of gaining the ball after a missed shot.
Returning serve
The skill of reading and playing back an opponent’s serve to stay in the rally.
Running form
The skill of running with efficient, relaxed and balanced movement.
Serving
The skill of putting the ball or shuttle into play to start a point or rally.
Setting
The volleyball skill of accurately placing the ball for a teammate to attack.
Shooting
The skill of striking or releasing the ball toward the goal or basket to score.
Spiking
The volleyball skill of jumping and striking the ball forcefully down into the opponent’s court.
Sprinting
The skill of running or riding at maximum controlled speed over a short distance.
Tackling
The skill of legally challenging an opponent to win the ball or stop their progress.
Throwing
The skill of propelling the ball accurately and with control using the arm.
Treading water
The skill of staying afloat and upright in deep water without moving anywhere.
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