Why do beach volleyball teams keep changing ends?
I · Intermediate · Scoring and winning · 1 of 6Checked 14 October 2026
Teams switch sides after every 7 points played in the first two sets, and after every 5 in the third. A toss before the match decides who serves first and who starts on which side. In the second set the loser of that toss gets the choice.
How it works
- The toss winner chooses either to serve or receive, or the side. The loser takes what is left.
- Second set: the team that lost the first toss chooses.
- Deciding set: a new toss.
- Switches come when the two teams' points add up to a multiple of 7 (sets one and two) or of 5 (set three).
- The switch is made at once, with no break.
- A missed switch is made as soon as it is noticed, and the score stands.
- Warm-up at the net before the match: 3 minutes if the teams had another court to warm up on, 5 if not.
Tricky cases
Is it every 7 points by one team, or in total?
In total. The teams switch after every 7 points played, counting both teams' points together.
Do the teams rest at a switch?
No. They must change immediately without delay.
Why the rule exists
Outdoors, sun and wind favour one side. Frequent switches share those conditions evenly across a set.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| FIVB beach rules | As above | BV 7.1; BV 7.2; BV 18.2 |
| Indoor volleyball | Change after each set, and at 8 in the fifth | V 18.2 |
From the rule book
FIVB Official Beach Volleyball Rules 2025-2028, Rules 7.1, 7.2 and 18.2. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: FIVB Official Beach Volleyball Rules (PDF).