Handball, like other sports, has its do’s and don’ts. Find out what’s allowed and not allowed in this game.

Allowed in Handball

In handball, you are allowed to take a maximum of three steps before doing a dribble. However, you can take another three steps after the dribble. On-court players can touch the ball with their arms, hands, head, shoulders, thighs, and knees. On the other hand, goalkeepers can touch the ball with any of their body parts. Players can stand in the way of the opposing player and open a gap for their teammate to get through. Consider learning how to play team handball and take a shot at the goal. Also, players are allowed to stand still with the ball in their hands for a maximum of three seconds without doing a dribble or throw.

Not Allowed in Handball

Typically, the opposite of the above constitutes what’s not allowed in handball. You can’t take more than three steps without dribbling. You’re not allowed to touch the ball with the lower parts of your legs if you’re an on-court player. Further, you can’t stand still for more than three seconds with the ball in your hands. You’re also not allowed to:

• Rip (use excess force) the ball out of your opponent’s hand.
• Use your hands, elbows, or legs to push away the player of the opposing team.
• Do a double dribble, which is making a new dribble after dribbling once and holding the ball in your hands.

The Bottom Line

In handball, players are advised to practise sportsmanship. You’re required to be friendly. Avoid abusing your opponents and the umpire. Otherwise, you may be carded and ejected from the court. There have been cases where players have been suspended for games just because they intentionally injured or used unprintable words against officials or other players.