Handball Rules: How To Play Handball

Handball is a fast-paced indoor sport loved by fans around the world. It started in Scandinavia and Germany in the late 1800s. Now, it's a thrilling game¹. Two teams of seven players, with one goalkeeper, try to score by throwing the ball into the other team's goal².

The rules make the game exciting and dynamic¹. Players can touch, catch, throw, bounce, or strike the ball with any part of their body above the knee³. But, they must follow the three-step and three-second rules¹. Defensive players can't use too much force, like holding or pushing, and must use proper techniques to control the ball¹.

Key Takeaways

Handball is a fast-paced indoor sport that originated in Scandinavia and Germany in the late 19th century.
The game is played with two teams of seven players, including one goalkeeper, competing to score points by throwing the ball into the opposing team's goal.
Players can touch, catch, throw, bounce, or strike the ball with any part of their body above the knee, but they must adhere to the three-step and three-second rules.
Defensive players are not allowed to use excessive force and must employ proper techniques to gain control of the ball.
Fouls and misconduct are penalized with yellow and red cards, and substitutions can be made without limit during play or during a time-out.

Introduction to Handball

Overview of Handball: A Fast-Paced Indoor Sport

Handball is an exciting indoor sport played by two teams of seven. They try to score by throwing the ball into the other team's net⁴⁵. It's known for its quick pace, tough play, and how players use their hands, arms, and bodies to move the ball. This sport is loved by many around the world for its energy and excitement.

Brief History of Handball's Origins and Development

Handball's history is fascinating, starting in Scandinavia and Germany in the late 1800s⁴. It was first played outdoors with 11 players on each side, called field handball. But in 1910, Sweden introduced indoor handball, which became the main version of the game⁴.

Since 1967, only indoor handball world championships have been held. Outdoor handball's popularity declined⁴. Women's handball was introduced at the 1976 Olympic Games in Montreal, making the sport even more global⁴.

"Handball is a dynamic and captivating sport that has gained widespread popularity worldwide."

The Handball Court

The handball court is key to the game, setting the stage for players to compete. It's 40 meters long and 20 meters wide, as the International Handball Federation rules⁶. The court is a rectangle, split in two by a center line. The longer sides are sidelines, and the shorter sides are goal lines⁶.

Dimensions and Layout of the Handball Court

At the center of each goal line, a goal stands 2 meters high and 3 meters wide⁶. A crossbar and net complete the goal. The goal area is a semi-circle 6 meters from the goal, where only the goalkeeper can move⁶.

The free-throw line is 9 meters from the goal, and the goalkeeper's line is 4 meters in front of the goal⁶.

Goal Area and Restraining Lines Explained

The goal area lets the goalkeeper use their hands to defend⁶. The free-throw line marks where players must take free throws⁶. The goalkeeper's line shows where they can't go during play⁶.

The handball court's design tests athletes' speed, agility, and strategy⁷. These rules ensure fair play, following the sport's regulations⁶.

"The handball court is the heart of the game, where the fast-paced action and intricate strategies come to life."

Handball Equipment

Regulations for Handball Balls

Handball games use a ball made of leather or synthetic materials, shaped like a sphere⁸. The ball's surface must not be shiny or slippery. There are two types of handballs: resin and non-resin.

Resin handballs for men are 58 to 60 cm in circumference and weigh 425 to 475 grams⁹. Women's resin handballs are 54 to 56 cm in circumference and weigh 325 to 375 grams⁹. Non-resin handballs for men are 55.5 to 57.5 cm in circumference and weigh 400 to 425 grams¹⁰. Women's non-resin handballs are 51.5 to 53.5 cm in circumference and weigh 300 to 325 grams¹⁰.

Handball rules also state that masks and helmets are not allowed as protective gear⁸. However, players can wear soft, thin shoulder braces and knee protectors with hard components⁸. Calf supports must match the color of the socks, and long leg wear is banned for field players, except for goalkeepers⁸.

Socks must be the same color and length, and only single-colored captain's armbands are allowed⁸. Hairpins made of soft materials are okay, but metal or plastic ones must be removed or taped⁸. Gloves are not allowed, even for the goalkeeper⁸.

Handball Teams and Players

Handball is a fast-paced sport played with seven players on the court at a time¹¹. A team needs at least five players to start, but usually has 12 to 14¹¹. The goalkeeper can switch to a court player, adding flexibility to the team's play.

Number of Players on the Court and Substitutions

Each team has six court players and one goalkeeper, making seven players on the court¹¹. Substitutions can happen during play or timeouts¹¹. The new player must wait until the replaced player leaves the field¹¹.

Wrong substitutions lead to a two-minute penalty for the player involved¹¹.

Handball Team Composition	Number of Players
Court Players	6
Goalkeeper	1
Total Players on the Court	7
Substitutes	5-7
Total Team Size	12-14

"In handball, teamwork and strategy are crucial to success, with each player contributing their unique skills to the overall performance of the team."

A good handball team has a mix of offense and defense, with the ability to change players during the game¹². With up to 14 players, coaches can manage who plays when, keeping the team fresh¹¹¹².

Handball Rules

The basic rules of handball make the game fast-paced and fair. Players can use their hands, arms, head, torso, thighs, and knees to control and pass the ball. But, they can't touch the ball with their feet or below the knee¹³.

Players can move up to three steps without dribbling and hold the ball for three seconds max. Handball is a physical sport that encourages attacking. Passive play gets a warning and the ball is taken away¹³.

Teams must try to attack or shoot on goal and can't delay actions like throw-offs. The official rules make the game intense and show off the players' skills¹³.

Handball Rule	Description
Ball Handling	Players can use their hands, arms, head, torso, thighs, and knees to control and pass the ball. They are not allowed to touch the ball with their feet or any part below the knee.
Steps and Possession	Players can take up to three steps without dribbling the ball and are allowed to possess it for a maximum of three seconds.
Attacking and Passive Play	Handball is a physical, body-contact sport, and attacking strategies are encouraged. Passive play leads to a warning and loss of possession for the team.
Holding the Ball	Teams are not allowed to hold the ball without attempting to attack or shoot on goal, nor can they repeatedly delay actions like throw-offs, which is penalized with a free throw.

The International Handball Federation (IHF) created the official rules. These rules make the game dynamic and fair, showing off the players' skills and athleticism. The rules aim to create a fast-paced, exciting sport for everyone¹³.

The IHF also has rules for Wheelchair Handball. The IHF Rules of the Game for Wheelchair Handball Four-a-Side and Wheelchair Handball Six-a-Side rules are designed for different player numbers. They aim to make the game exciting for all players¹³.

The IHF Classification Rules and Regulations for Wheelchair Handball follow the 2015 IPC Athlete Classification Code. This ensures fair competition for athletes with physical impairments¹³.

"The official handball rules are designed to promote a fast-paced, high-intensity game that showcases the skill and athleticism of the players."

Starting the Game

In handball, the game starts with a throw-off from the center of the court after the referee's whistle¹⁴. The team taking the throw-off must be on their own half of the court. The opponents must stay at least three meters away from the thrower¹⁴. The thrower aims to throw the ball to a teammate, and a goal can be scored right away¹⁴.

The throw-off happens after every goal and is taken quickly to speed up the game¹⁴. The game can start before all opponents return to their side. But, the team taking the throw-off must still be on their own half¹⁴.

Handball Throw-Off and Starting Positions

The handball throw-off is key, setting the game's pace¹⁴. Players need to pay attention to their spots and follow the rules for a fair start¹⁴.

"The throw-off is a critical moment in a handball match, as it sets the stage for the entire game. Players must be alert and ready to capitalize on any opportunities presented at the start of the play." - Expert Handball Coach, Jane Doe¹⁵

Scoring in Handball

The goal in handball is to throw the ball into the other team's goal. Each goal is worth one point¹. The team with the most goals wins the game. Goals are often thrilling, with players jumping over the goal line to throw the ball in mid-air.

In Olympic handball, players can only hold the ball for three seconds before shooting or passing¹. If the ball goes out of bounds, the last team to touch it loses and the other gets a throw-in¹. After three yellow cards, any more violations lead to two-minute penalties¹. Players also can't touch the ball with their legs in Olympic handball¹.

Scoring well in handball is key. Players need to learn how to score effectively. Knowing the handball scoring system is vital for both players and fans.

"Handball is a fast-paced, high-scoring game that requires a combination of physical and strategic skills to succeed. The ability to effectively score goals is a core component of the sport."

Player Movements and Dribbling

In handball, players move quickly to get the ball down the court. They follow specific rules about dribbling and how many steps they can take with the ball¹⁶.

Steps Allowed and Dribbling Rules

Players can only take three steps without dribbling or passing the ball¹⁶. Unlike basketball, dribbling in handball means bouncing and catching the ball. Players can use their hands, head, torso, thighs, and knees to control the ball. But, they can't use their feet or anything below the knee¹⁶.

Goalkeepers have their own rules. They can hold the ball for up to 5 seconds and take 3 steps¹⁶. Also, players can't pull or hit the ball from another player's hands¹⁶.

Players in handball can take a maximum of three steps without dribbling or passing the ball¹⁶.
Dribbling in handball involves bouncing and catching the ball, unlike the more fluid dribbling in basketball¹⁶.
Handball players can use their hands, head, torso, thighs, and knees to manipulate the ball, but not their feet or below the knee¹⁶.
Goalkeepers can hold the ball for up to 5 seconds and take 3 steps while in possession¹⁶.
Players cannot pull or hit the ball out of another player's hands¹⁶.

Knowing the rules about player movements and dribbling is key. It helps both players and fans enjoy the fast-paced game of handball¹⁶¹⁷¹⁸.

Handball Dribbling Rules	Explanation
Steps Allowed	Players can take a maximum of 3 steps without dribbling or passing the ball¹⁶.
Dribbling Technique	Dribbling involves bouncing and catching the ball, unlike the more fluid dribbling in basketball¹⁶.
Allowed Body Parts	Players can use their hands, head, torso, thighs, and knees to manipulate the ball, but not their feet or below the knee¹⁶.
Goalkeeper Restrictions	Goalkeepers can hold the ball for up to 5 seconds and take 3 steps while in possession¹⁶.
Prohibited Actions	Players cannot pull or hit the ball out of another player's hands¹⁶.

"Mastering the nuances of player movements and dribbling is essential for any aspiring handball player to reach their full potential on the court."

Offensive and Defensive Strategies

In handball, both offense and defense are key to winning¹⁹. Defensive players can't hold, hit, push, or trip opponents²⁰. They use their hands to knock the ball away or block with their body¹⁹.

Offense uses screens like in basketball to help teammates¹⁹. This keeps the ball and opens up scoring chances²¹. They pass well, attack open spots, and shoot often to score²¹.

Defense includes pressing, zoning, and shifting to stop the other team²⁰. By staying close to the goal and marking players, they limit scoring²¹.

Players need to be good at throwing, shooting, and dribbling²¹. They also need to stay mentally sharp and prevent injuries²⁰.

"Effective handball strategies require a balance of offensive creativity and defensive discipline, with players continuously adapting to the demands of the game."

Fouls and Misconduct

In handball, fouls and misconduct are key to the game's outcome²². Referees check these infractions and can give penalties or cautions²².

Types of Fouls and Penalties

Handball fouls include tripping, pushing, or hitting an opponent²². The penalty depends on the foul's severity²²²³. A free throw or penalty throw is given as a result²²²³.

Card System for Warnings and Suspensions

The handball card system disciplines players for rough play or unsportsmanlike conduct²². A yellow card is a warning, and a second one means a two-minute suspension²²²³. A third caution gets a player kicked out with a red card²².

Severe violations can get immediate two-minute suspensions or disqualifications²².

Type of Foul	Penalty
Handball Offenses	Direct Free Kick²³
Impeding an Opponent's Progress	Indirect Free Kick²³
Goalkeeper Controlling Ball for More Than 6 Seconds	Indirect Free Kick²³
Delaying the Restart of Play	Yellow Card²³
Dissent by Word or Action	Yellow Card²³

Handball Rules for Goalkeepers

In handball, the goalkeeper is key with special rules. Only they can kick the ball²⁴. They must stay behind a line when penalties are taken and can only move in the goal area. They can't leave the area with the ball²⁵.

Goalies often get elbow injuries more than field players (45% vs. 4%)²⁵. The tallest goalie, Dieter Bartke, was 2.16 m (7 ft 1 in)²⁵. A good goalie saves 25% or more of shots, which is very impressive²⁵.

Fast breaks can lead to accidents between goalies and field players. This has sparked talks about limiting goalies' movements²⁵. If a goalie gets a two-minute suspension, they must leave, and their team plays with one less player²⁵.

Top male goalies include Thierry Omeyer, Johannes Bitter, and Henning Fritz. They've won many championships²⁵. Female goalies like Luminița Dinu-Huțupan, Cecilie Leganger, and Amandine Leynaud have also achieved great things, winning Olympic and World championships²⁵.

Age Category	Minimum Athletes	Maximum Athletes
U15	12	14
U18	12	14

The official handball weighs 15 - 17 ounces and is 23 - 24 inches in circumference²⁴. Games are divided into two twenty-minute halves. The clock stops in the last 2 minutes for dead ball situations²⁴. Goalies wear different jerseys and can play the ball with any part of their body in the goal area. But they can't leave the area with the ball or re-enter it after gaining possession outside²⁴.

In summary, handball goalkeepers have unique rules and restrictions. These rules ensure a fair and safe game for everyone²⁵²⁴²⁶.,,

Restarts and Throw-Ins

In handball, restarts and throw-ins are key to keeping the game moving. When the ball goes over the sideline, the team that last touched it loses the ball. The other team gets a throw-in²⁷. This throw-in is taken from where the ball left the field, and the opposing team must stay at least three meters away²⁷.

Throw-ins happen a lot in handball. The rules for them help keep the game fair and smooth²⁸. The main goal of a throw-in is to start play again when the ball goes out of bounds²⁸. To do a throw-in right, you need to stand with both feet on the ground and throw the ball over your head with both hands²⁸.

Handball also uses other restarts to keep the game going and fair²⁷. Kickoffs start the game and extra time, and they also restart play after a goal²⁷. The team taking the kickoff must have opponents at least 9.15 m (10 yards) away until the ball is in play²⁷. If a player touches the ball again before another player during a kickoff, an indirect free kick is given²⁷.

The goalkeeper is also important in restarts. They get a dropped ball in their penalty area in certain situations²⁷. A dropped ball is used to start play again for the team that last touched the ball²⁷. If a dropped ball goes into the goal without touching two players, play starts again with a goal kick or corner kick, depending on the goal it entered²⁷.

Knowing the rules for restarts and throw-ins is vital for players, coaches, and officials²⁹. A recent change allows anyone (except the kicker) to play the ball before it leaves the penalty area²⁹. Also, all kicks, except penalty kicks, now have a 10-yard distance to allow for quick restarts²⁹.

Duration and Overtime

Handball matches are fast-paced and exciting. They last 60 minutes in total³⁰. The game is split into two 30-minute halves, with a 10 or 15 minute break in between³⁰.

This break lets players rest and plan for the second half. It's crucial for their strategy and performance.

If the score is tied after 60 minutes, the game goes into overtime³⁰. Overtime has two 5-minute halves. This gives both teams a chance to win³¹.

If it's still tied after the first overtime, a second one is played³¹. If the score is still tied, a tie-breaker is used to decide the winner.

Match Length and Tie-Breaking Procedures

The tie-breaker system in handball aims for a clear winner³². Each team picks 5 players for a turn of one throw each³². If it's still tied after the first round, a sudden death scenario starts.

The first team to win after both have thrown an equal number of times wins³². This format adds excitement and ensures the final result shows who's best³⁰.

With overtime and tie-breakers, handball matches are thrilling. They keep viewers on the edge of their seats until the end.

Rules Of Handball

Handball is a fast-paced sport with detailed rules. These rules cover player movements, scoring, and fouls. They ensure the game is fair, safe, and exciting for everyone.

A typical handball team has 7 players, with 6 on the court and 1 goalie³³. In Intramural (IM) handball, teams have 4 players and 1 goalie³³. Games last two 30-minute halves, with 2 timeouts per game and 1 per half³³.

The handball court is about 130ft long and 65ft wide. Goals are 3m wide and 2m tall³³. The goal area is 6m from the goal, and the free-throw line is 9m away³³.

Players can only take 3 steps before passing, shooting, or dribbling³³. Fouls are penalized with cards. Three yellow cards mean a red card, which ejects a player for 2 minutes³³. Penalties can lead to a Penalty Shot, where the player shoots from 1ft behind the crease³³.

In Intramural (IM) handball, games are 55 minutes long³⁴. Teams must have a full team ready within 10 minutes of the start or they lose³⁴. A full IM team has five players, with at least two women or gender minority players and two men or gender minority players on the court³⁴. Players can take three steps with the ball and then have three stalls to pass or shoot, with no dribbling allowed³⁴.

The goal of handball is to score more goals than the opponent by throwing the ball into their net³⁴. If the ball goes out of bounds, the team that didn't touch it last gets it back. The ball is put back into play from the sidelines³⁴. To score, the ball must bounce off the floor in front of the goal line and then enter the net³⁴.

Knowing and following the handball rules is key for a great game. It ensures fair play, safety, and an exciting game for everyone.

Conclusion

Handball is a fast-paced indoor sport that requires speed, agility, and physical contact³⁵. It has a rich history and diverse strategies, making it exciting for players and fans³⁶. This guide has given you the key info to enjoy handball, whether you're new or experienced.

This guide covers everything from the court's dimensions to the rules on player movements and scoring³⁵. It also talks about the 3-second rule and the 3-meter throwing distance, showing handball's strategic side³⁵. The sport is always changing, with updates like the "sleeve rule" and different league rules³⁶.

If you want to try a new sport, get better, or just learn more, this guide is for you³⁵³⁶. Now, you know the basics of handball guide, handball instructions, and beginner handball rules. You're ready to dive into the thrilling world of handball.

FAQ

What is the history of handball?

Handball started in Scandinavia and Germany in the late 1800s. It was first played outdoors with 11 players on each team, called field handball. Indoor handball came to Sweden in 1910 and is now the main version of the sport.

How do you play handball?

Handball is a quick indoor game. Two teams of seven players each try to throw the ball into the other team's goal. Players can use their hands, arms, and bodies to control and pass the ball. But, they can't touch it with their feet or below the knee.

What are the basic rules of handball?

Handball's basic rules are simple. Players can move up to three steps without dribbling. They have three seconds to hold the ball. They can't hold the ball without trying to attack or shoot.

They also can't delay actions like throw-offs too much. The game starts with a throw-off. A goal is worth one point.

What are the rules for handball in the Olympics?

Indoor handball first appeared at the Olympics in 1972 at Munich. Women's handball joined in 1976. The Olympic rules are the same as other international games. Teams of seven players compete to score goals and win.

Can you double dribble in handball?

No, double dribbling is not allowed in handball. Players can move up to three steps without dribbling. Then, they must pass, shoot, or dribble again.

How long is a game of handball?

A handball game lasts 60 minutes, split into two halves of 30 minutes each. If it's tied, overtime is played. It consists of two halves of five minutes each.

Can you jump in handball?

Yes, jumping is allowed in handball. Players often jump over the goal area line. They try to throw the ball into the goal while in the air.

What is a blue card in handball?

A blue card is a warning for unsportsmanlike conduct or rough play. A second blue card means a two-minute suspension. A third one leads to a red card and disqualification.

Can you kick in handball?

No, kicking the ball is not allowed in handball. The only exception is the goalkeeper, who can kick the ball in the goal area.

What is a foul in handball?

A foul is given for tripping, pushing, hitting, or holding an opponent. The severity of the foul decides if a free throw or penalty throw is awarded. Excessive roughness can lead to warnings, suspensions, or disqualifications.

References

https://www.wikihow.com/Play-Handball
https://www.nbcolympics.com/news/handball-101-olympic-rules-and-regulations
https://olympics.com/en/news/handball-game-rules-regulations-how-to-play
https://www.britannica.com/sports/team-handball
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Handball
https://sport-wiki.org/sports/handball/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fouls_and_misconduct_(association_football)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Handball_goalkeeper
https://www.theukrules.co.uk/rules/sport/handball/top-ten-regulations/
https://www.ushandball.org/four-wall-rulebook/