One-Handed vs Two-Handed Backhand: Pros, Cons & How to Choose

by Cosmin {WebTennis24} | Tennis Coaching, Tennis Training | 0 comments

Two-Handed or One-Handed Tennis Backhand? My Honest Opinion

In the video above, I discuss a common question: which tennis backhand should you learn: one-handed or two-handed? After playing and teaching both for three decades, I want to give you a clear, practical take on the pros and cons so you can choose what fits your game and goals.

Why do many players start with a two-handed backhand

Two-handed backhands are popular with players and coaches because they feel more stable and easier to control. Using both hands naturally gives added support, which helps when learning timing and point of contact. Under pressure, like return of serve or dealing with high-bouncing balls and kick serves, two hands often feel more reliable. It’s also more forgiving: you can be a bit early or late on contact and still keep the ball in play.

Drawbacks of the two-handed backhand

Requires a larger muscle chain and more rotation from the hips and shoulders.
Can feel cramped if you lack flexibility.
Less effortless feeling compared with a well-executed one-hander.

Why I fell in love with the one-handed backhand

The one-handed backhand felt almost effortless when I learned it. A sideways turn and a fluid arm swing create a simple, elegant stroke. It uses less upper-body uncoiling and can be very rewarding to hit when contact is timed correctly.

Challenges of the one-handed backhand

Contact must be precise and out in front; being late drastically reduces control.
High-bouncing balls and some serves are tougher to handle without a strong slice or solid forearm control.
Requires intentional grip work and forearm strength to stabilize the racket at impact.

How I teach backhands

As a coach, I give beginners both options – one-handed and two-handed. I demonstrate each technique, feed a few balls, and ask which feels more natural. Most beginners prefer two hands for control, but many later try the one-hander and enjoy the simplicity and feel. Ultimately, it’s about what feels right and what suits your movement and flexibility.

How to choose

Try both styles on court; feel matters more than theory.
Consider your physical traits: flexibility, arm strength, and comfort when turning sideways.
Work on precise contact for one-handers and functional rotation for two-handers.

One-Handed Tennis Backhand / WebTennis24

FAQ

Which backhand is better for beginners?

Two-handed is generally easier to learn and control at first, so many coaches recommend it for new players.

Can I switch from two-handed to one-handed later?

Yes. With focused practice on the contact point, grip, and forearm strengt,h you can transition, but expect a learning period.

Which style handles high-bouncing serves better?

A two-handed backhand tends to be easier for handling high or kick serves. One-handers rely on a strong slice or perfect timing.

Do I need a strong forearm for the one-handed tennis backhand?

Yes. Forearm and wrist control are important to stabilize the racket at impact and produce consistent shots.

Conclusion

Both backhands have clear advantages. Two-handed offers control and power; one-handed offers simplicity and an effortless feel when executed well.
I recommend trying both, understanding the contact and technique, and choosing the style that matches your body and comfort on court.

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Ready to improve your tennis further?
Let’s get started!

Improve Your Doubles Tennis with 3 AI-Driven Custom Drills

by Cosmin {WebTennis24} | Tennis Coaching, Tennis Training | 0 comments

AI Custom Tennis Drills to Improve Your Doubles Game

If you want to get better at doubles tennis, using AI custom doubles tennis drills can help you practice key skills and become a smarter player.
The following drills are designed to help you improve your net play, volleys, overheads, and court movement – all important for doubles success.
Whether you train alone or with a partner, these drills offer a fun and effective way to work on your game.

Drill 1: Tactical Doubles Advance

The first drill focuses on moving forward to the net, a crucial skill in doubles. You start by hitting a series of shots on one side of the court: a slice forehand crosscourt, a half volley forehand crosscourt, followed by a high volley put-away down the line. After completing these shots on the deuce side, you get a few seconds to move to the ad side and repeat the sequence.
This drill helps you practice approaching the net and finishing points with aggressive volleys. It can be done solo with a ball machine or with a partner taking turns hitting balls.
The alternating feeds make it realistic and keep you sharp.

Drill 2: Half-Court Doubles Dominance

The second drill is about controlling the half-court area, which is very important in doubles strategy. You start at the baseline with two topspin groundstrokes, directing them crosscourt. Then you hit an approach shot to move closer to the net. Once at the net, you practice three volleys and finish with an overhead smash.
After finishing on one side, you switch and repeat the same pattern on the other side of the court.
This drill builds your ability to handle different types of shots and maintain pressure at the net.
Like the first drill, it works well solo or with a partner, with the ball machine alternating feeds between players.

Drill 3: Lob Defense and Net Attack

The third drill is the most fun and helps you improve your reaction to lobs and your net attack.
Starting at the net, you prepare for a lob ball that lands at or beyond the service line.
You run back to hit it and then come forward for a short ball approach.
After moving up, you do three volleys: forehand volley, backhand volley, and a high put-away volley to finish.
This drill trains your footwork, quick reactions, and volley skills under pressure.
It can be done alone or with a partner, alternating to keep the pace and intensity up.

Why Use AI Custom Doubles Tennis Drills?

These drills are created specifically for doubles play and can be downloaded from the PongBot app if you own the AI ball machine.
The PongBot machine feeds balls with precise timing and placement, making your practice sessions efficient and realistic. You can also customize the drills to fit your needs, whether you want to focus more on volleys, approach shots, or court movement.
Using AI custom doubles tennis drills helps you get consistent reps on important shots, improves your timing, and builds confidence for match situations. Plus, the ability to practice alone or with a partner makes it easy to fit training into your schedule.

Final Thoughts

Working on your doubles skills with these AI custom doubles tennis drills will help you become a better player by improving your net play, volleys, overheads, and court positioning. Whether training solo or with friends, these drills are enjoyable and practical. If you want to try them, consider using a PongBot AI ball machine to get the most out of your practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do these drills without a ball machine?

Yes! You can have someone feed balls to you manually and still benefit from these drills. The key is to maintain the sequence and timing of shots.

How many players can practice with these drills?

These drills work well for solo practice or with two players. They can also be adapted for small groups, making them great for coaches training multiple players.

What skills do these drills improve?

These drills focus on net approach, volleys, overheads, lob defense, and court movement – all essential for doubles tennis.

Where can I get these drills?

If you own a PongBot AI ball machine, you can download these drills directly from the PongBot app’s drill library.

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Ready to improve your tennis further?
Let’s get started!

Why You Should Raise Your Elbow on Forehands

by Cosmin {WebTennis24} | Tennis Training | 0 comments

Improving your tennis forehand technique doesn’t always require complicated adjustments.
One simple but highly effective tip I’ve found is to raise your dominant elbow during your backswing. This small change can help you shorten your backswing, allowing you to make contact with the ball earlier and further out in front, which is especially useful when facing hard-hitting opponents.

Shorten Your Backswing by Raising Your Elbow

When preparing for your forehand, focus on your dominant elbow as you turn your shoulders and take your racket back. Instead of letting your elbow drop, raise it so that it’s the first part of your arm to touch a fence or wall behind you if there was one. This raised elbow position naturally shortens your backswing because your racket won’t go too far back.

Why does this matter? A shorter backswing means you can swing through the ball sooner and make contact further in front of your body. This timing advantage is crucial when playing against players who hit the ball hard and fast. If your elbow is low and your backswing is long, you might find yourself late on the shot, making contact too close to your body and losing control.

How to Practice This Technique

I recommend practicing this elbow-raising drill against a ball machine. As you get ready for each shot, focus on turning your shoulders and raising your dominant elbow during your backswing. Feel how your elbow leads the motion and keeps your backswing compact. From this position, you can smoothly drop the racket and swing forward, hitting the ball at the optimal point.

This simple adjustment can make a huge difference in your forehand timing and control, especially under pressure from aggressive opponents.

Key Benefits of Raising Your Elbow

Earlier contact: Helps you hit the ball earlier and with better timing.
Better control: A shorter backswing improves precision and consistency.
Improved positioning: Makes it easier to meet the ball out in front where you generate more power and leverage.
Adaptability: Useful when facing fast-paced shots, helping you stay ahead of the ball.

Conclusion

Raising your dominant elbow during your forehand backswing is a quick and easy fix that can elevate your tennis forehand technique. This adjustment shortens your backswing, improves your timing, and helps you make contact with the ball further out in front. Try this tip during your next practice session, especially against a ball machine, and feel the difference it makes in your stroke.

FAQ

Q: Why is a shorter backswing important for my forehand?

A shorter backswing allows you to make contact with the ball earlier and further in front, which improves timing and control, especially against fast shots.

Q: How do I know if I’m raising my elbow correctly?

If your dominant elbow would be the first thing touching a fence behind you when you take your racket back, you’re on the right track.

Q: Can this technique help with all types of forehands?

Yes, raising your elbow to shorten the backswing can benefit both topspin and flat forehands by improving timing and control.

Q: Should I practice this only with a ball machine?

While practicing against a ball machine helps you focus on the elbow position, you can apply this technique during regular play as well.

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Ready to improve your tennis further?
Let’s get started!

I Tested the Smartest Tennis Ball Machine: Pongbot Pace S Pro

by Cosmin {WebTennis24} | Tennis Coaching, Tennis Training | 2 comments

Discover the Future of Tennis Training with the AI Tennis Ball Machine: PongBot Pace S Pro

After more than two decades of regularly using tennis ball machines in my training, I recently encountered the PongBot Pace S Pro – an AI tennis ball machine that genuinely impressed me.
This isn’t just another ball feeder; it’s the world’s first smart ball machine that tracks your movement on the court and adapts its feeds in real time.
Imagine training with a partner who watches your every step and adjusts the ball placement accordingly.

In this article, I’ll walk you through my three favorite features of the PongBot Pace S Pro: Custom Drills, Recovery Trigger, and Adaptive Rally.

Custom Drills: Tailor Your Practice to Your Goals

One of the most exciting capabilities of the PongBot Pace S Pro is the ability to create custom drills. Whether you’re a player, coach, or tennis parent, this feature allows you to design drills that align perfectly with your training objectives.

What makes this feature remarkable is that you can program up to 45 balls in one sequence. For instance, you might want to practice a combination of baseline strokes, approach shots, volleys, and overheads all in one fluid drill. The machine can deliver this complex sequence seamlessly, making your practice session both varied and dynamic.

Using the accompanying app, setting up these drills is intuitive and fun. You can customize every ball’s spin (topspin, slice, or no spin), speed, height, and placement on the court. This level of control means you can replicate specific match scenarios or focus on particular shots that need improvement.

To illustrate, I programmed an 11-ball drill involving my daughter Bianca, which included baseline forehands and backhands, short balls to bring her forward, volleys, and lobs (watch the video above). The machine fed balls in a pattern that mimicked a real match, allowing me to coach her live while the machine managed the ball feeds. This hands-free approach lets coaches focus on instruction without interrupting the flow of practice.

Additionally, the app offers over 300 pre-programmed drills designed by professionals, which you can use directly or modify to fit your needs. This extensive library ensures that players of all levels have access to high-quality training routines at their fingertips.

Recovery Trigger: Training at Your Own Pace

The Recovery Trigger feature is a game-changer for anyone looking to simulate realistic match conditions while controlling the pace of their training. This function allows you to designate a “recovery spot” on the court, such as behind the baseline, at the service line, or closer to the net, using the app.

The AI tennis ball machine then waits to feed the next ball until you return to this recovery spot after hitting your shot. This means the machine adapts to your speed and stamina. If you recover quickly, the machine speeds up the ball feed; if you take your time, it waits patiently.

This feature is especially useful for coaches because it allows them to pause the drill to give feedback or instructions without the ball machine continuing to feed balls relentlessly. For players, it means you can manage your energy levels and focus on quality shots rather than rushing to keep up with a preset tempo.

The technology behind this is impressive: the machine uses two sensors placed on the net and a wearable tag on the player (attached to clothing or a visor) to track the player’s position on the court. This setup enables the machine to know precisely when you’ve returned to the designated recovery spot.

During a demonstration with Bianca, we set the recovery spot behind the baseline. As she hit each shot, the machine only fed the next ball once she returned to the spot. When she slowed down, the machine waited, and when she sped up, the ball feeds came quicker (see the video above).
This personalized pacing makes workouts more effective and less exhausting.

Adaptive Rally: Intelligent Ball Feeding Based on Your Position

The third feature I’m excited to share is the Adaptive Rally. This function allows the AI tennis ball machine to track your position on the court and feed balls accordingly.
Instead of a fixed ball placement, the machine adjusts in real time based on where you move.

For example, if you hit a ball and then move several steps to the right, the next ball will be fed to that new position, helping you work on your footwork and shot preparation without feeling rushed.

This feature is particularly beneficial for beginner players who need extra time to get into position without the pressure of a constant ball feed. It encourages proper footwork and positioning, which are foundational skills for tennis improvement.

Using the same sensor and tag system as the Recovery Trigger, the machine continuously monitors your location. Whether you’re at the baseline or the net, you can customize drills to match your position and training focus.

In practice, I had Bianca wear the tag while the machine tracked her movement. As she shifted around the court, the machine adapted, ensuring the next ball was fed exactly where she was standing.
This flexibility makes practice sessions feel more dynamic and less robotic.

Additional Features and Final Thoughts

Beyond these three standout features, the PongBot Pace S Pro comes loaded with other impressive capabilities:

Smart match simulation: Mimics real match scenarios to prepare players mentally and physically.
NTRP-based ball feeds: Customize speed and difficulty based on your National Tennis Rating Program level.
Remote and app control: Operate the machine easily from your remote, or smartphone.

While this AI tennis ball machine won’t replace a coach or hitting partner – because nothing can replace human feedback and interaction – it offers a unique, challenging, and fun way to enhance your training whenever you want. It’s perfect for players looking to improve independently, or coaches seeking an efficient way to run drills.

One minor downside? You can’t claim to have beaten a robot! But the benefits far outweigh that small drawback.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes the PongBot Pace S Pro different from other ball machines?

The PongBot Pace S Pro is the world’s first AI tennis ball machine that tracks your movement on the court and adapts its ball feeds in real time, offering features like custom drills, recovery trigger, and adaptive rally that simulate realistic match play.

Can I customize drills on the PongBot Pace S Pro?

Yes! You can create drills with up to 45 balls per sequence, customizing spin, speed, height, and placement. The app also includes over 300 pre-programmed professional drills.

How does the Recovery Trigger feature work?

You set a recovery spot on the court, and the machine waits to feed the next ball until you return to that spot. This allows you to train at your own pace and gives coaches time to provide feedback during drills.

Is the PongBot Pace S Pro suitable for beginners?

Absolutely. The Adaptive Rally feature is especially helpful for beginners, as it feeds balls based on your position, allowing you to focus on footwork without feeling rushed.

How do I control the machine during practice?

The Pace S Pro can be controlled via a lightweight remote, or a smartphone app, giving you flexibility and convenience during training sessions.

Where can I buy the PongBot Pace S Pro?

You can purchase it online through authorized dealers. Using the discount code CTT5 will save you 5% at checkout.

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Ready to improve your tennis further?
Let’s get started!

How to Switch from Two-Handed to One-Handed Tennis Backhand

by Cosmin {WebTennis24} | Tennis Coaching, Tennis Training | 0 comments

How to Transition from a Two-Handed to a One-Handed Tennis Backhand: Essential Progression Drills

Having a reliable tennis backhand is a pivotal part of any player’s development, and deciding to switch from a two-handed to a one-handed backhand can open new doors in your game. Whether you’re a coach needing an extra hand to hold balls while rallying with your students, or a player who finds the one-handed backhand more natural and comfortable, this transition can be a game-changer.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through three simple but effective progression drills, along with essential tips, to help you confidently make the switch and build a technically sound one-handed backhand.

Why Switch from Two-Handed to One-Handed Backhand?

When I began teaching tennis, I realized that holding tennis balls in one hand while rallying with my students was a challenge with a two-handed backhand.
Transitioning to a one-handed backhand gave me the freedom to hold balls in my non-dominant hand, making coaching more efficient.
Beyond coaching, many players prefer the one-handed backhand for its fluidity and style.
If you’re just starting tennis and feel more comfortable with a one-handed backhand, these drills will set you up for success.

Understanding the Grip and Body Mechanics

The foundation of a good one-handed backhand starts with the grip.
Unlike the two-handed backhand, which often uses a continental grip with the dominant hand, the one-handed backhand requires a slight adjustment. Place the “V” formed by your thumb and index finger on the edge of the racket, then slide your hand one bevel towards your non-dominant side. This grip is known as the eastern backhand grip and allows your racket face to point forward at contact, which is crucial for clean ball striking (for visual demonstration, watch the video above).

Equally important is learning the body rotation.
With a two-handed backhand, your hips, shoulders, and hands rotate together through the shot. However, for a one-handed backhand, your hips and shoulders stay sideways while your hands separate – “spread your wings” – moving away from each other like a bird preparing to fly. This sideways body position helps maintain control and power without unnecessary rotation.

Progression Drill #1: Contact and Follow-Through

Start by positioning yourself sideways with the eastern backhand grip ready.
Keep your hands close together and the racket out in front of your body, ideally in front of your front foot.
As the ball comes towards you, meet it out in front, not too close, and swing low to high.
As you make contact, remember to “spread your wings” by moving your hands apart while keeping your hips and shoulders sideways.
This drill helps you internalize the feel of the contact point and the crucial hand movement needed for a smooth one-handed backhand.

Progression Drill #2: The Backswing Preparation

Next, adopt the eastern backhand grip again, but this time cradle the neck of your racket with your non-dominant hand – watch the video above.
Keep your non-dominant elbow slightly elevated, pointing backward, and angle your racket at about 45 degrees towards the sky.
As the ball approaches, bend your knees slightly and let your racket drop naturally.
Then swing low to high while spreading your wings and keeping your body sideways.
This drill emphasizes the importance of preparation and backswing mechanics, setting you up for a controlled and powerful stroke.

Progression Drill #3: Ready Position and Grip Change

From a neutral ready position, practice holding your racket by the neck with your non-dominant hand. This makes changing to the eastern backhand grip easier as you prepare for your shot.
When you see the ball coming, step out with your outside foot, turn your hips and shoulders sideways, and rotate your dominant hand’s grip to the one-handed backhand position.
As the ball arrives, step in, drop your racket, and swing low to high, spreading your wings – watch the video above.
Repeating this drill helps you integrate footwork, grip change, and body positioning smoothly into your stroke.

Important Tips for a Successful Transition

Forearm Strength: The one-handed backhand relies heavily on the forearm muscles, which may initially feel weak or tired. Don’t be discouraged – consistent practice will build strength and control over time.
Contact Point: Always meet the ball out in front of your body. Avoid letting the ball get too close, as this can lead to poor control and less effective shots.
Body Position: Resist the urge to rotate your hips and shoulders through the shot as you did with the two-handed backhand. Keeping your body sideways is key to a solid one-handed backhand.
Repetition: Use a ball machine or a partner to feed you balls consistently. Repetition is critical to developing muscle memory and confidence in your new stroke.

Final Thoughts

Switching from a two-handed to a one-handed tennis backhand can feel challenging at first, but with the right drills and mindset, it becomes an enjoyable and rewarding process. Focus on your grip, maintain the correct body position, and practice the “spread your wings” motion to build a fluid and powerful backhand. Remember, strengthening your forearm muscles through repetition is essential for control and endurance. Stick with these progression drills, and soon enough, you’ll be enjoying the elegance and effectiveness of your new one-handed tennis backhand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How long does it take to transition from a two-handed to a one-handed backhand?

A: The transition varies by individual, but with consistent practice using the drills outlined here, many players begin to feel comfortable within a few weeks. Building forearm strength and muscle memory is key, so regular repetition is essential.

Q: Is the one-handed backhand better than the two-handed backhand?

A: Neither is objectively better; it depends on personal preference, playing style, and physical attributes. The one-handed backhand offers greater reach and can be more versatile for slice shots, while the two-handed backhand often provides more stability and power for beginners.

Q: Can beginners start learning tennis with a one-handed backhand?

A: Absolutely. If you find the one-handed backhand more natural or comfortable, starting with it can be beneficial. The drills discussed here are great for beginners to develop good technique from the start.

Q: How important is the grip change in the transition?

A: The grip change to the eastern backhand grip is crucial as it positions the racket face correctly for effective ball contact. Practicing holding the racket with your non-dominant hand on the neck can make this change smoother during play.

Q: Should I rotate my hips and shoulders during the one-handed backhand?

A: Unlike the two-handed backhand, your hips and shoulders should stay sideways during the one-handed backhand. The power comes more from the shoulder, timing, and hand movement rather than body rotation.

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Ready to improve your tennis further?
Let’s get started!

Practice This Tennis Serve Drill: Flat, Slice and Kick

by Cosmin {WebTennis24} | Tennis Training | 0 comments

This tennis serve drill is exactly what you need to elevate your serve and gain better control over your spin and placement.
Developed for intermediate and advanced players, this drill focuses on practicing the three essential types of serves: flat, slice, and kick. By systematically working through these serves from both the ad and deuce sides, you can build consistency, improve your spin control, and add variety to your game.

In this article, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of this drill, share tips on how to execute each type of serve effectively, and explain why this drill should become a regular part of your tennis practice routine. Let’s dive in!

Why Focus on Flat, Slice, and Kick Serves?

The serve is one of the most important shots in tennis — it sets the tone for the point and can give you a significant advantage if executed well. Each type of serve offers different benefits and challenges:

Flat Serve: This is a powerful serve with minimal spin, designed to hit the court quickly and with speed. Great for aces or forcing weak returns.
Slice Serve: This serve uses side spin to curve the ball, making it more difficult for your opponent to anticipate and return.
Kick Serve: This serve uses topspin to make the ball kick up high after bouncing, causing trouble for opponents, especially on second serves.

Practicing all three types regularly allows you to mix up your serves during matches, keeping your opponents guessing and improving your effectiveness on the court. The tennis serve drill I’ll describe helps you develop control and consistency with each serve, which is crucial for competitive play.

Setup and Positioning for the Drill

To start the drill, position yourself behind the baseline on the ad side of the court. Keep a basket of tennis balls next to you so you can practice continuously without interruptions. The goal is to hit one flat serve, one slice serve, and one kick serve in; each serve must successfully land in the service box before moving on to the next type.

Once you complete the sequence on the ad side, move to the deuce side and repeat the same pattern: flat serve, slice serve, kick serve. Continue alternating sides, practicing the three serves in order, and focusing on control and spin for each one.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Tennis Serve Drill

1. Start with the Flat Serve

Begin the drill by focusing on your flat serve. The flat serve is all about power and precision. Your goal is to hit the ball with minimal spin and land it inside the service box. If the ball goes out or hits the net, reset and try again until you get a clean flat serve in.

Remember, the flat serve should be hit with a relaxed wrist and a long follow-through. The racket face should be mostly flat at contact, allowing the ball to fly fast and straight. Don’t rush; focus on your toss, timing, and hitting through the ball.

2. Move on to the Slice Serve

Once your flat serve lands successfully, it’s time to practice the slice serve. The key to a good slice serve is brushing the ball sideways to impart spin. You’ll notice that the racket finishes with a characteristic motion, often finishing with the racket tilted sideways after contact. This spin causes the ball to curve in the air and skid off the court at a tricky angle.

Concentrate on the ball toss and your racket angle. The toss should be slightly to the right (for right-handed players) to allow you to swing across the ball. Brush the ball gently with a slicing motion rather than hitting it flat. Keep practicing this until you get one slice serve in the service box.

3. Finish with the Kick Serve

The kick serve is often the most challenging of the three because it requires brushing up on the ball to create topspin, causing the ball to “kick” high after bouncing. To execute this serve, your toss must be slightly higher and more above your head compared to the other serves.

Focus on getting under the ball with your racket and brushing up sharply. This upward brushing motion creates the topspin that makes the ball bounce higher on the opponent’s side. It’s a great serve to use on second serves because it’s safer and harder to attack.

Keep adjusting your toss and swing until you land a good kick serve within the service box. Don’t get discouraged if your toss isn’t perfect at first – practice makes perfect!

Alternating Between Ad and Deuce Sides

Once you’ve hit one good flat, slice, and kick serve from the ad side, move to the deuce side and repeat the same sequence. The mechanics of the serve change slightly depending on the side because your angles and target zones are different.

By alternating sides, you train your body to adapt and maintain control no matter where you’re serving from. This also simulates real match conditions where you need to be comfortable serving effectively from both sides of the court.

Tips for Successful Practice

Be Patient: Only move on to the next serve type once you’ve successfully landed the previous one in the service box. This ensures quality over quantity.
Focus on Toss Placement: The ball toss is critical for all types of serves. For flat and slice serves, the toss should be slightly in front or to the side. For kick serves, toss the ball higher and directly above or slightly behind your hitting shoulder.
Use Consistent Routines: Develop a serving routine before each serve to build rhythm and consistency.
Watch Your Follow-Through: Each serve type has a different follow-through path: flat serves tend to finish more straightforward, slice serves with a sideways racket finish, and kick serves with an upward brushing motion.
Keep Practicing Regularly: Incorporate this tennis serve drill into your weekly practice sessions to maintain and improve your serve control and variety.

Why This Tennis Serve Drill Works

This drill is effective because it breaks down the serve into manageable parts and emphasizes quality over quantity. By forcing yourself to land one flat, one slice, and one kick serve before switching, you build muscle memory and control for each type of spin. Alternating sides adds an extra layer of challenge and realism.

Practicing all three types of serves develops your versatility, allowing you to adapt to different opponents and match situations. Whether you want to hit powerful aces, tricky slice serves to pull your opponent wide, or safe and high kick serves on second serves, this drill helps you build those skills.

Additional Resources and Next Steps

For those serious about improving their tennis serve, consider expanding your training with comprehensive programs that cover technique, drills, and tactics. Many resources are available online that offer detailed lessons on flat, slice, and kick serves, as well as other essential tennis skills.

Remember, the tennis serve is a complex skill that requires consistent practice and attention to detail. This tennis serve drill is a great foundation to build upon, but combining it with strength training, video analysis, and match play will accelerate your progress.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should I practice this tennis serve drill?

I recommend doing this drill at least once a week. Consistency is key to improving your serve control and spin. You can increase frequency as you become more comfortable with the technique.

Can beginners use this drill?

This drill is best suited for intermediate and advanced players because it requires some familiarity with different serve types. Beginners may want to focus first on mastering the basic flat serve before incorporating slice and kick serves.

What should I do if I keep missing the kick serve?

The kick serve can be tricky due to the higher toss and brushing motion. Focus on your toss placement: make sure it is above your head and slightly behind. Practice the brushing motion slowly and work on timing. Video analysis or coaching can also help identify specific issues.

How important is the ball toss in this drill?

The toss is one of the most important elements for all serves. A consistent and well-placed toss allows you to hit the ball cleanly with the desired spin and power. Spend time practicing your toss separately if needed.

Should I use this drill to prepare for matches?

Absolutely. This drill not only improves your serve technique but also builds confidence and consistency, which are crucial for match play. Incorporate it into your warm-up or regular practice routine.

Conclusion

Improving your tennis serve requires dedicated practice and attention to detail. This tennis serve drill focusing on the flat, slice, and kick serves offers a structured way to develop control, spin, and variety. By practicing one serve at a time and alternating between the ad and deuce sides, you build the skills needed to become a more effective server.

Make this drill a regular part of your training regimen, and you’ll notice increased confidence and better results during your matches. Remember, the key to success is patience, consistent practice, and focusing on the fundamentals of each serve type. Now get out there and start serving with purpose!

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Ready to improve your tennis further?
Let’s get started!

Improve Your One-Handed Backhand: 4 Tennis Tips to Control Depth

by Cosmin {WebTennis24} | Tennis Training | 0 comments

One Handed Backhand Tennis Fix: 4 Tips to Stop Missing Long (+ Tennis Drill to Try)

One of the common struggles many players face is missing their one-handed backhand and ground strokes deep.
This article will provide you with four essential tips to correct this issue and improve your overall performance on the court.
By the end, you’ll also find a practical drill that you can implement immediately to gain better control over your shot depth.

Understanding the One-Handed Backhand

The one-handed backhand is a beautiful stroke that, when executed properly, can be a powerful weapon in your tennis arsenal. However, many players find themselves consistently hitting the ball long, which can be frustrating and detrimental to their overall game. Understanding the key factors that influence this stroke is crucial for making the necessary adjustments.

Tip 1: Grip Matters

The first and perhaps most critical aspect to examine is your grip. If you’re using a continental grip, it may be time for a change. The continental grip, often referred to as the “hammer grip,” involves holding the racket as if you were hammering a nail with the edge of the racket. While this grip works well for many shots, it can lead to problems with the one-handed backhand.

For optimal results, switch to the eastern backhand grip. To do this, simply move your hand one bevel to the left (for right-handed players) from the continental grip. This adjustment will allow your racket face to be square at contact, which is essential for hitting the ball accurately. With the eastern backhand grip, you’ll find that you have better control, reducing the likelihood of sending the ball deep.

How to Identify Your Grip

To identify your grip, hold the racket and look at the bevels. The top bevel (bevel number one) is where the continental grip is placed – watch the video above for a visual demonstration. Moving one bevel to the left (if you’re right-handed) places you in the eastern backhand grip. This minor adjustment can make a significant difference in your shot execution.

Tip 2: Create Spin

The second reason you might be hitting your one-handed backhand too deep is the lack of spin. Spin is crucial for controlling the depth of your shots. Whether you’re generating topspin or slice, creating ball rotation is key. The more spin you can impart on the ball, the more it will drop into the court.

To achieve this, focus on your swing motion. You should be swinging from low to high, brushing up on the back of the ball. This technique will help you generate topspin, which will pull the ball down and into the court. Remember, the ball spins like a wheel, and that rotation helps you hit more shots in, minimizing the risk of going long.

Why Spin Matters

When the ball rotates, it creates differences in air pressure. The air on top of the ball pushes it down, helping it land earlier in the court. This is why mastering the art of spin is vital for enhancing your one-handed backhand. Not only does it give you better control, but it also increases your shot’s effectiveness against opponents.

Tip 3: Elbow Action

The third common mistake players make is leading with the elbow during their swing. When you lift your elbow too high, the racket face tends to open, causing the ball to sail long. Instead of lifting your elbow, keep it closed and let the racket do the work. This will ensure a more controlled stroke and a better chance of hitting your target.

Focusing on your elbow position can significantly enhance your shot accuracy. By keeping your elbow in a stable position, you’ll maintain better control over the racket face, which is crucial for hitting the ball where you want it to go (watch the video above for a visual demonstration).

Practical Tips for Elbow Control

Practice shadow swings to focus on your elbow position without the ball.
Incorporate drills that emphasize keeping the elbow tucked in during your swing.

Tip 4: Proper Weight Transfer

The final reason you could be hitting your one-handed backhand too deep is improper weight transfer. If you find yourself leaning back and transferring your weight backward as you hit, your racket face will open, resulting in deep shots. Instead, focus on transferring your weight forward into the shot.

To practice this, you can use a simple drill. Find a partner to feed you balls, or use a ball machine. As the ball approaches, step into it and transfer your weight onto your front foot at the moment of contact. This will help you make contact with the ball earlier and improve your depth control.

Drill for Weight Transfer

When practicing this drill, pay attention to your back foot. After making contact with the ball, lift your back foot off the ground. This action will force you to step into the shot and ensure that your weight is properly transferred forward (watch the video above for a visual demonstration). It’s a great way to develop the muscle memory needed for effective weight transfer in your one-handed backhand.

Conclusion

Improving your one-handed backhand doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By focusing on your grip, generating spin, controlling your elbow position, and ensuring proper weight transfer, you can significantly enhance your shot accuracy and depth. Remember to practice the suggested drill regularly to reinforce these techniques.

For those looking for more tennis training resources, check out our website – WebTennis24, where you can find additional tips, drills, and techniques to elevate your game. Don’t forget to support our channel and grab your free e-books to help you on your tennis journey!

FAQs

What is the best grip for a one-handed backhand?

The eastern backhand grip is recommended for a one-handed backhand as it allows for a square racket face at contact, improving accuracy and control.

How can I generate more spin on my one-handed backhand?

To generate more spin, focus on a low-to-high swing path, brushing up on the back of the ball to create topspin.

Why is weight transfer important in tennis strokes?

Weight transfer is crucial because it helps maintain balance and control, allowing for more powerful and accurate shots.

Can certain drills help improve my one-handed backhand?

Yes, specific drills focusing on grip, elbow position, and weight transfer can significantly improve your one-handed backhand.

By applying these tips and consistent practice, you’ll be on your way to mastering your one-handed backhand and avoiding those frustrating deep misses. Happy hitting!

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

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