Here’s a quick guide to the basic rules of the sport before you get out on the court.
Basic handball rules
The six metre line – No handball player (other than the goalkeeper) is permitted in the goal area (inside the 6-meter line). Exceptions include shots on goal, in which the player hops into the area and shoots the ball before landing in the goal area.
‘Walking’ – If a handball player takes more than three steps without dribbling (bouncing the ball) or keeps the ball for more than three seconds without bouncing, shooting, or passing, it is considered ‘walking’ and possession is forfeited.
‘Double dribble’ – Handball players cannot receive and bounce the ball before holding it and bouncing it again. This is known as ‘double dribble’ and is against the rules.
‘Kicking’ – Handball players (other than the goalkeeper) are not allowed to kick the ball. If the ball makes contact with a foot, the opposing team gains possession.
Handball fouls – Tripping, shoving, hitting, clinching, charging, or holding are all prohibited in handball.
Free-throws in handball – These are issued for minor violations of the regulations. All defenders must stay 3 metres (9.84 feet) away from the individual taking the free throw.
Penalty-throws in handball – These are given for denying a clear scoring opportunity through an infringement.
Handball sanctions – Depending on the gravity of the infractions, the referee may issue a yellow card (warning), a suspension (2 minutes sitting out), or a red card (dismissal).
Throw-ins – These are granted after the ball crosses a sideline. It is taken by the side that did not touch it last, with the player placing one foot on the line where the ball left the court and passing it back in.
Corners – When a defender knocks the ball beyond the goal line, the attacking side takes a corner. The player places one foot on the corner of the sideline and the goal line before passing the ball in.
Goal-throws – This happens when the ball bounces off the goalkeeper and crosses the goal line. The goalkeeper then receives the throw from within their own area.
