We’ve compiled the top netball warm-up drills to get you game ready. Warming up might not be the flashiest part of netball, but it’s the most important – and can be a lot of fun! A good warm up gets the blood pumping, mind focused, and team connected before hitting the court.
Whether your team is getting ready for an action-packed training session, or an important game, the right drills can make all the difference. In this blog, we’ll dive into the top warmup netball drills to get your team buzzing and prepared for a Sports Tours Netball Tournament.
10 Balls Anywhere
The “10 Balls Anywhere” netball warm-up is fast, fun and a little bit chaotic – in the best way possible. Picture this: ten balls flying around the court, players shouting names and making split-second passes. There’s no set pattern, so anything goes – just keep the balls moving.
Focus: Passing, communication and quick reactions
How to play: Start with ten netballs and spread players out around the court. On “go,” players begin passing the balls randomly at each other. The aim is to keep all ten balls moving at once, with players making quick decisions about who to pass to and staying alert to catch incoming balls. Play for 1-2 minutes, reset, then go again.
“The physical benefits of a warm-up go without saying – warming up your muscles, increasing blood flow/oxygen supply is the best way to get your body prepared for the match ahead. But over the years, I’ve found that one of the biggest benefits of warming up comes from the mental preparation it offers. It helps you get into the right headspace – focused on the task at hand rather than the pressure or occasion, especially when heading into a must-win game. It’s a moment to block out distractions and dial into the game plan.”
Four Corners Passing
Need a drill that gets everyone moving, laughing, and sharpening their passing skills? Say hello to the “Four Corners Passing Drill” – the ultimate combination of movement, teamwork, and a little bit of chaos.
Focus: Passing variety and communication
How to play: Set up four cones to form a square on the court with one player standing at each cone. One player stands in the middle of the square and the players in the corner pass the ball around in a set order. The player in the centre moves constantly trying to intercept passes to receive the ball. After a set time or number of passes, rotate the players so everyone gets a turn in the middle.
Reaction Ball Drop
In netball, reactions can be the difference between a perfect intercept and watching the ball sail by in the blink of an eye. The “Reaction Speed” drill will turn any netball player into a lightning-fast legend by training the body to react in a split second.
Focus: Reaction Speed
How to play: One player holds a ball at shoulder height. Another player stands a few steps away, focused and on their toes. Without warning, the ball holder drops the ball. The player’s job is to react quickly and catch the ball before it bounces twice. Repeat several times and switch roles.
Quick Hands Wall Drill
This drill works wonders for warming up players and targeting the most important skills in netball: blazing-fast hand speed and razor-sharp reflexes. When you’re passing and catching off a wall at high speed, your brain and body must work together in overdrive.
Focus: Hand speed and accuracy
How to play: Stand about 1-2 metres away from the wall with a ball in hand. Throw the ball against the wall quickly and sharply, and as the ball bounces back, catch it as fast as you can and immediately pass it again. Keep the rhythm fast and steady, focusing on quick reactions and clean catches. If you’re really looking for a challenge, use one hand only.
Hot Potato Passing
Who said warmups can’t be fun? Hot Potato passing is a hilarious, fast-paced drill that trains netball players to think and move at a supercharged pace.
Focus: Speed & reflexes
How to play: Players gather in a circle or small group and start by quickly passing the ball around the group. The goal is to keep the ball moving as quickly as possible, like a hot potato that no one wants to hold for too long.
Get Moving, Get Winning
So, whether you’re gearing up for a friendly match or going full throttle ready for a Sports Tours Netball Tournament final, never skip your warmup. Warming up helps you move better, play smarter and stay injury free. Plus, it’s a chance to laugh, bond, and shake of the nerves before the real action begins.
Have any more questions? Want to join an upcoming tour? Get in touch or check out our upcoming netball events.
Author
Clara Grice
Clara brings over two years of professional experience in marketing, having previously held roles within the recruitment and investment sectors. In 2022, following the successful completion of her university degree in Hispanic Studies with Polish, she embarked on a Level 3 Junior Content Creation apprenticeship.
Following this, she took a six-month career break to undertake a backpacking trip through South America. Upon her return, Clara joined Sports Tours, where she has been able to integrate her passion for travel with her expertise in marketing and her enthusiasm for grassroots sports.
Contributor
Gemma Davis
Gemma Davis is an accomplished Sales Manager with over nine years of experience in the Ski and Sport industry at Rayburn Tours. Throughout her career, Gemma has demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering growth within the sports sector, leveraging her industry knowledge and sales skills to drive business success.
Her professional focus is complemented by a genuine passion for sports, with a particular enthusiasm for encouraging the participation of women and girls in sports. Beyond her professional achievements, Gemma is an avid netball player, boasting over 30+ years of experience playing at both at school and club levels.
