How To Hit A Sound Tennis Forehand

By Davis Pete


A coach would usually teach a traditional eastern grip forehand which produces the flatter forehand. However, these days you find kids and players playing with semi-western and full-western grips to generate more top-spin. A combination of both styles of forehands would be effective on the tennis court. the forehand is normally the stronger side of a player's game as compared to the backhand. Top-spin forehands allow the ball to spin into the court and kick up. This loopy trajectory allows more time for both players to adjust and react. A flat forehand would be more of an attack-minded shot. It is more aggressive. Sound players must have the flat forehand as part of their arsenal.

The following pointers are important to hitting a sound forehand:

1. Get into the correct position. Beginners should learn to hit the forehand by turning sideways and stepping into the ball. This is called the closed stance. As one improves, the open stance would be preferred. The key for beginners is to able to be able to contact the ball properly each time. Then to progress to learning the swing. For beginners, the initial grip is to learn to hold the racket with the eastern forehand grip.

2. Turn your body sideways either in an open or square stance position and move racket back and down by the side of your body. Ensure an eastern forehand grip.

3. Sound footwork will work wonders for your forehand. Move towards the ball and step into the ball with your left foot. This will ensure your body is turned when you hit it. Ideally as a beginner, stay in a square stance position before progressing into an open stance.

4. Contacting the ball on the racket sweet spot is important. Always try to hit the ball in a squarely. Have your tennis racket beside and low and brush up and forward on the ball. Ensure you are properly balanced. As a beginner it is better to stay sideways and only rotate your arms. Do not rotate your lower body. This will ensure stability when you strike the ball.

5. To impart top spin, the follow through of the swing must be low to high. However for a flatter shot, the follow though will be below your shoulder. The follow through is critical to ensure that the swing is complete. Therefore do not hesitate with the follow through and merely bump the ball.

Now that you are equipped with the pointers, ensure that you try out these tip when you practise your fore hand. Try out the top-spin and flat forehands. Always remember that its a combination of footwork, stance and focus on the point of contact. Enjoy the game!




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