What energy systems am I using when playing volleyball?

The energy system demands of a volleyball player are for the most part aerobic.  What is important, however, is the energy system of a play, which is anaerobic in most cases. In a series of plays you will have a high intensity anaerobic burst followed by a recovery period. Your fitness level will determine if you can recover from the anaerobic burst in time to do it again.  The key when training for volleyball is to be able to create a high level of anaerobic power quickly and then to be able to recover and generate that same power again.  In volleyball this means your anaerobic system limitations are the factor that determines whether you can maintain a series of plays at a high intensity or not.  Your aerobic system will help with the recovery between points and the endurance you need for a long season.  For volleyball, both the aerobic and anaerobic systems need to be trained.