I started playing tennis when I was 10 years old. Immediately, I realized how difficult the game was. However, despite the tough learning aspect of the game, there was something about the sport that made me want to get back on the court as soon as possible. As my game progressed, there were many ups…
We all like to think that we can control what happens on the tennis court. Unfortunately, a lot of what happens is not totally under your control. The opponent, conditions and luck all contribute to how you hit your shots and whether you win or lose the match. As a player, you should expect that…
Players use many different strategies in a tennis match. The best players can use several tactics to keep their opponent off balance or on the defensive. I would recommend that most players stick with one or possibly two basic strategies so there is some consistency to your thought process. My three favorite strategies in order…
One of the most common strategies that professional players use these days is to hit their forehand either inside out or inside in. This is a very effective strategy because a player with a good forehand can set up pretty much the same way with their feet, and hit the ball in either direction. The…
It is very easy to get wrapped up in how well you are hitting the ball when playing a tennis match. However, one of the things that will have the most impact on your level of success is your percentage of made shots. If your serve is decent, making 70 or 80 percent of first…
Things always seem to happen faster in the heat of a tennis match. This makes it extremely important to organize your thoughts in between points. Start with a clean slate. Anything that has already happened is beyond your control. Remind yourself of a few basic technique ideas: watch the ball, take your normal swing whenever…
When I learned to play tennis, my coaches always repeated the “watch the ball” mantra. In my mind, I assumed that my racquet should be making contact with the back center of the ball for the best possible hit. However, if you are trying to hit the ball to a specific area of the court…
It is extremely important to watch the ball all the way from your opponent’s racquet contacting the ball, through your strings contacting the ball. After you hit your shot, shift the focus to what your opponent is doing-watch them. If they are on the run, pushed back or having to react very quickly to your…
There are many ways to get the tennis ball to go in a certain direction. Hitting the ball early or late, adjusting the angle of your racquet face, and positioning your body and shoulders are the most common. Based on my experience, using your shoulder position is the most reliable way to direct the shot….
I have been involved in tennis since I was 10. It has always been special to me. Tennis has taught me a lot about myself, about life, and about what it means to compete. There have been many ups and downs, successes and failures, and a lot of learning. Sounds like life… We need to approach…