The ball may make contact with any part of the body, including the feet, which helps to improve defensive play. To maintain game continuity, double contact is permitted during the initial hit. The inclusion of the "penetration of hand" rule to the feet rule aids in improving defensive play near the net. A player cannot touch the foot of his or her opponent with intent to get away with a point violation; rather, he or she must simply penetrate the surface with the hand or arm to win the point. There is no specific reason why the penetration of hand rule was adopted by the FIVB; it is just one of those things that grew over time. Perhaps the most important thing is that it is there and can be used if necessary. As long as there are ways for players to win points, then there will be room for creativity and innovation on the court. In conclusion, the penetration of hand rule was adopted by the FIVB because it improves defensive play near the net while still allowing for creative strategies that benefit both offensive and defensive games.