Handball is an intense and fast-paced team sport where two teams of seven players each compete to score the most goals. The sport is played on a rectangular court and requires both technique, teamwork, and physical strength. Here you get an overview of the most important rules, the layout of the court, player positions, and the flow of the game.
A handball court measures 40 meters in length and 20 meters in width. The court is divided by various lines, which are important for the rules and conduct of the game.
The goal area is the zone marked by the solid 6-meter line in front of each goal. Only the goalkeeper is allowed to be in this area. If a defender has a foot on or inside the goal area line and thereby prevents a clear scoring opportunity, the attacking team is awarded a penalty throw. In less serious cases, a free throw is given.
If an attacking player steps into the goal area with the ball in hand, it is ruled as a violation, and the opposing team is awarded a goal throw. The same applies if the player without the ball gains an advantage by stepping into the area.
The free throw line is a dashed line located 9 meters from the goal. Free throws must be taken outside this line, and teammates may not cross the opponents' free throw line before the throw is taken.
The penalty throw line is located 7 meters from the goal, and the restraining line for the goalkeeper is placed 4 meters from the goal. The player taking the penalty throw may not step on or over the 7-meter line. The goalkeeper may move up to, but not over, the 4-meter line.
A handball match for seniors is played over 2 x 30 minutes. In the event of a tie in decisive matches, extra time is usually played in 2 x 5 minute periods.
Each team has seven players on the court at a time: one goalkeeper and six field players. Substitutions can be made continuously and without limitation, but must take place via the substitution area.
Players have different roles in the attack, briefly described here. (Read more about attacking openings in our separate article – see link at the bottom).
Defensive play can be organized in different formations, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. (Read more about defensive formations in a separate article – see link at the bottom).
The goalkeeper may move freely within the goal area and may use both arms and legs to block shots. Outside the goal area, the same rules apply as for field players. The goalkeeper may not bring the ball from the court into the goal area if it is stationary or rolling outside.
During a penalty throw, the goalkeeper may not move further forward than the restraining line (4 meters) before the ball is thrown.
Handballs come in three sizes, depending on age and gender. The sizes are set by the IHF (International Handball Federation).
A free throw is awarded for minor infringements, for example if the ball hits an opponent's foot. If the infringement is intentional, it can result in a 2-minute suspension. A player may take a maximum of three steps before the ball must be passed or dribbled. After dribbling, up to three steps may be taken again. Double dribbling is not allowed. It is also not allowed to rip the ball out of the hands of an opponent who has control of it.
The free throw is taken from the spot where the infringement occurred, but never from one's own goal area or inside the opponents' free throw line. Opponents must stand at least 3 meters from the thrower, and teammates may not cross the free throw line before the throw is taken.
A penalty throw is awarded if a team is denied a clear goal chance – regardless of where on the court the infringement occurs.
The penalty throw is taken from the 7-meter line. The thrower must stand behind the line, but may not touch it. The throw must be taken within 3 seconds after the referee's signal. Both teammates and opponents must position themselves at least 3 meters behind the goal line and penalty throw line, respectively.
A throw-in is awarded if the ball completely crosses the sideline, or if the ball hits the ceiling or other objects above the court. The player taking the throw-in must have one foot on the sideline. Opponents must keep at least 3 meters away, unless they are standing outside the goal area line on their own half.
A goal throw is awarded if an attacking player violates the goal area, or if the ball was last touched by an attacker before it crosses the end line. The goal throw is taken by the goalkeeper from the goal area, and opponents may not touch the ball until it has left the area.
Handball is a dynamic sport with many rules and nuances that make the game both challenging and exciting. For more detailed information on attacking openings, defensive formations, and advanced rules, please refer to our other articles under Sport | Handball.
**The article is now more readable, accurate, and inviting for both new and experienced readers.**
