Players stand with one player in the middle and five around the outside.
It's the aim of the outside players to pair up and shut down the middle player's escape route - using shoulder strength to box out the middle player.
Defending in a personal duel:
Be strong but don't push!
Keep arms slightly bent and in front of you, prevent the attacker from coming between your arms. Stay between the goal and attacker.
Handball demands explosive power, repeated sprint ability, and the strength to compete physically for 60 minutes. Sport-specific conditioning develops the athletic qualities that underpin elite performance.
Handball matches are won and lost in critical moments. Mental toughness determines who executes under pressure, who recovers from setbacks, and who maintains concentration throughout 60 intense minutes.
Deception is the great equaliser in handball. Smaller, less powerful players can beat defenders through feints and misdirection. Mastering these skills creates breakthrough opportunities against even the most organised defences.