Volleyball is a game of the hands and arms -- at least for the most part. Although volleyball players usually hit the ball with their hands and arms, they are actually permitted to use any part of the body. If you are a volleyball player, you should understand how you are allowed to kick the ball and why you would want to do so.

Hitting the Ball Any point of contact that you make with the ball is considered a hit in volleyball. The rules of volleyball clearly state that "the ball may touch any part of the body" when hitting the ball -- including the foot. This means that kicking the ball is legal and counts as a hit.

Number of Hits Allowed Your team may hit the ball up to three times on your side of the net, but the third hit must go over the net to you opponents, including any kicks. If your team hits the ball a fourth time before returning it, then it is considered a fault and the opposing team will be awarded a point. Individuals can only strike the ball once before another player plays it. If you contact the ball twice -- for instance kicking it and then hitting it with your hand -- it is also considered a fault.

Purpose of Kicking In general, it is unwise to kick the ball even if it is legal to do so. Your hands and arms provide better control, allowing you to direct the ball where you want it to go. Kicking the ball is usually a last resort. For instance, if you have fallen and can't reach the ball with your hands you may attempt to keep the ball in play with your foot.

Trapping the Ball In soccer, a skilled player can trap the ball on his foot out of the air. While a volleyball player may be able to do this, it would be illegal to do so. Volleyball's rules state that the ball must be hit -- not caught. If the ball strikes your foot but does not rebound, then it is considered a fault. In this case, a point would be awarded to the opposing team.