If you’re a newcomer to handball looking for the rules, or a seasoned vet making sure you remember the rules correctly, my blog has everything you’re looking for. A common question asked by every handball player at one point, or another is, how many steps can you take in handball?
In a game of handball, a player holding the ball can take 3 steps before they must pass or shoot the ball. Taking more than 3 steps results in a turnover. Players without the ball can move around freely without having to count their steps. This rule applies to both indoor and beach handball.
It’s completely normal to have a few turnovers when you play handball for the first time, as counting steps isn’t something we do often. Once you’ve played in a few games, the 3-step rule becomes a habit and feels very natural.
The best thing to do is not to think about it too much and focus on moving the ball around to your teammates. You’ll find that running with the ball is not a big part of handball at all.
There are a few other rules you need to be aware of to play handball the right way. If you’re ready to learn then all, click here to find out what they are.
Why Can You Take Only 3 Steps in Handball?
People have always wondered why handball has a 3-step rule. It’s not a common rule amongst sports, making it a very specific part of handball. In my opinion, this simple rule makes handball a lot more fun to play.
The 3-step rule exists in handball to promote team play. It forces a team to move the ball around, and more importantly, it drives people to move without the ball. This simple rule keeps everyone on the team involved and always engaged throughout the duration of the game.
We’ve all played a sport where one played chooses not to pass. Not only does this ruin the fun of the game but it creates disinterest on the team. The 3 step rule forces everyone to pass the ball early and often keeping everyone on the team connected. Without the rule, there would always be one player on every team trying to take on the entire defense by themselves.
Since dribbling and tacking are not parts of the game, having a 3-step rule encourages forward-thinking and athleticism. You will often see passes and shots being made on the first step instead of the third one.
Don’t Focus on Your Feet
The idea of handball is to play a team sport in a competitive environment and have fun. If you spend your time thinking about your feet or how many steps you took, you will miss out on the true meaning of the game.
When playing handball, always keep your head up while visualizing your teammate’s movements. Handball can be a frantic game, so it’s important to keep an eye on everyone’s position on the court. That includes your team as well as your opponents.
When you have the ball or are about to receive a pass, it’s important to have an idea for your next move. Luckily, you only have 3 options: move, shoot or pass.
If you’re keeping your head up and focusing on the play instead of your feet, you can be prepared to take a shot, make a pass to a player in a better position, or take few steps in either direction to create a better angle.
Our instinct is to shoot, and if you have an open lane, then go for it! If you see your teammate in a good position, consider the assist. Now, if you need to get to a better place on the court, use your feet.
Summary
That about covers how many steps you can take in handball. You should be aware of the rule and why it’s so important to the game.
Always remember that the 3 step rule exists to encourage team play, ball movement, strategy, and athleticism.
The next time you’re playing handball forget about counting steps and just focus on being completive and having a good time with your team. The 3 step rule will become an afterthought in no time at all.
Want to Know More About Handball?
If you want to learn all the rules of the game, I’ve put together an article with everything you need to know. It’s called Handball Rules, How to Play Handball. The guide is equipped with a bullet point list of all the rules you need to know to play the game. Regardless of if you play indoors or at a beach, the same rules apply.
There, you’ll find a downloadable PDF of all the rules and regulations. Feel free to download my guide and share it with your teammate and organization.
Keep playing this amazing game, and always remember to be competitive and have fun.