Volley
The volley can be one of the trickiest strokes in tennis. This is because a volley is typically hit close to the net, causing players to have to react quickly to shots. The volley should just a simple "punch" of the racket straight forward. It doesn't require you to swing all the way through, if you do this, most likely the ball will always go out of bounds or into the net. In volleys, if you are going to hit it on your dominate hand side, use one hand, punch the ball forward, and step forward with your left foot. If it is on your non dominate side, you are going to put two hands on the racket your non dominate hand on top, while your dominate hand is below it. As you punch, step forward with your right foot this time. The volley is used more in doubles, because one player is closer to the net during a point. However, once a player gets the volley down, it can be an awesome stroke, and fun to use.
Forehand
The forehand stroke is the most basic stroke seen in tennis, it is also referred to as a ground stroke. This stroke is a one handed stroke that is hit with a player's dominant hand. Many players prefer to hit with their forehand, because it is their strongest hit. Unlike a volley, a ground stroke is one where the ball bounces before the player hits it.
Backhand
The backhand is just the opposite of the forehand. The back hand requires two hands to hit the ball on the player's non dominant side. The back hand can usually be a difficult shot for many to become consistent at simply because one has to be sure to get the proper technique.
Overhead/Serve
The overhead shot is exactly as it sounds, an overhead hit. Although this shot seems like it should be pretty simple, it can be tricky. An overhead is usually hit somewhere close to the net, when the opponent has either purposely or accidentally lobbed the ball. An overhead is just like a serve except a serve obviously is further back and you get to throw the ball up. The key to an overhead hit is to tuck the racket back behind your back before making contact and then swinging through the ball while keeping your eyes one it. The serve can be a little more tricky, but is the same concept.
This instructional video is awesome at explaining these many strokes thoroughly while also giving you visuals to proper positioning.
Here is also a great website for further explanations about the strokes of tennis:
Hey Sierra, are these strokes real hard to learn for a begginer. Just for a reference can you give some more info because i thought there might of been more to the volley. I like the blog I just want to know a lot more like when your starting out should you play best out of three or should i start slow and work my way up when i am playing tennis in my leisure time. Cant wait till your next post I am learing alot more than I use to know about tennis. Which is making have a greater appericaition for it.
ReplyDeleteThese stroke are just like any other sports, they require a lot of practice. Usually people who have played baseball have a hard time adjusting to tennis because they want to swing their racket like a bat. As for starting out, you can do whatever works best for you, I would reccommend just starting with the basic strokes, and hitting a lot of balls just back and forth to get the hang of it. Maybe after you have the strokes down you can start playing matches say best to three.
ReplyDeleteP.S. I updated my blog a little more about volleys! I appreciate all the feedback!
Thank you Sierra, I understand more than i use to i look forward to reading more of your post coming up in the future.
DeleteHoly Moly! I thought you just hit the ball back and forth by any means necessary! I had no idea about all these different techniques!
ReplyDeleteDoes every hit/stroke only need one hand on the racket? When and why would someone use two hands?
Looks like you really know what you're talking about! Good job! ;-)
Only strokes you hit with your dominate hand only require just one hand (Forehand ground stroke and volley). Two hands are used for your non-dominate side (backhand ground stroke and volley) because usually people are weaker on that side. It also gives more guidance and follow through to use two hands on the side they are not very used to using.
ReplyDelete