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TENNIS
TIPS
by
Brad Humphreys, USPTA
Certified
USPTA Pro of the year and
USTA Pro of the year
Who should cover the
middle?
Everyone is better than
no one!
STANCE:
You have heard a lot of discussion about ‘open stance’,
‘closed stance’, and the ‘diagonal stance’ when hitting a
forehand. Each stance has its advantages depending on the
situation and the specific shot being hit.
There is one constant for all three stances and that is
"shoulder turn". The hips and shoulders rotating into the ball
is the base for power. Of course you cannot do this unless you
turn the shoulders first. The best way to assure hip and
shoulder rotation is to push the racket back with your
non-dominate hand. If you are right handed push the racket back
with your left hand. This move will force you to turn your hips
and shoulders.
A great example of this technique is a series of pictures
of Andy Roddick’s forehand.
(Pictures are coming!)
ROGER FEDERER AND THE FOREHAND STANCE
Federer hits his forehand from three
different positions: open stance, semi-open stance and square
stance.
The open stance forehand is effective
in dealing with power or generating power. Very good for return
of serve, being pulled wide and allows for a quick recovery.
The semi-open stance forehand offers
greater versatility and can be used in offensive, defensive or
neutral positions.
The square stance forehand is typically
an offensive shot and is frequently used when moving forward and
attacking.
How should you hit your forehand?
Consider how you would like to improve your game and modify your
forehand to help accomplish your goal. Keep in mind that the
open stance forehand is hit with a semi- western grip, which
also helps a player hit with more topspin. ‘Loading’ up on the
outside leg, rotating the shoulders to increase torque, and
rapidly increasing racket acceleration through the contact point
generates force. Let me help you turn your forehand into a
weapon of mass destruction!
Last Updated:
07/07/2010 |
