Tennis is not a game for the weary or slow moving. Tennis is a game of quick movements that use every muscle in your body. It is difficult to become a fantastic tennis player due to several reasons including the inability to find an affordable tennis club, lessons, or players to practice against. These obstacles can impede your improvement in tennis which will make you frustrated. Before you quit tennis altogther, try these six simple steps to a winning tennis game.
First make sure you have the appropriate equipment. How old is your tennis racquet? Is it wooden? If you have a wooden tennis racquet put it away, you will definitely need a graphite racquet instead. Why? The professionals use graphite racquets because they provide more power and have a larger hitting area. This combination makes it easier to hit a winning shot. Buying a graphite racquet will not break the bank as you can find them for as little as $20.
Start practicing by hitting against a board or tennis wall. You can find these unyielding "opponents" at public tennis courts. You can construct a hitting board at your home if you desire by placing a wooden board against a fence. The definite height and weight of the hitting board will force you to focus on accuracy. Try to hit 8-10 balls against the wall without missing. Once you have improved your conistency you are ready to face an opponent.
Keep moving. Tennis is not baseball. Tennis is a sport that demands constant movement in order to succeed. You have to move towards that ball the moment you know where it is heading. Being out of position is a common mistake for beginners so improve your chances for success by always moving. Once you hit a shot, move back towards the center of the court behind the baseline. Don't wait for the next shot ... move!
What about my tennis strokes? There is a constant debate over a one-handed versus two-handed backhand. Use the one-handed backhand because it takes less time to be in the proper position for this shot. Plus, you will have a wider variety of angles and less prone to having the ball fly into you while you are preparing for the shot.
Have a game face and show no emotion. If you become angry during the match your opponent will know that they are in your head. An emotional tennis player tends to hit the ball in the net and out in frustration. Take a moment to breathe. Tennis is a game of accuracy and consistency. Keep your emotions in check and you will rack up wins.
Should you hit the ball hard and flat or with spin? Spin is in. Spin can take time and effort to learn, but it is well worth it. Spin is a sign of an advanced player. Spin requires thinking and placing topsin or backspin on the tennis ball. Your follow through is different and the ball bounces in a different fashion. Spin helps you to trick your opponent as a ball that looks like it is going out spins right in on the baseline. Watch the professional tennis players. They all use spin.
Tennis will help you to improve your fitness level and have fun at the same time. You can also improve your hand-eye coordination. Tennis can be mastered if you add the steps listed in your tennis training program. Have fun on the court and watch your number of winning shots go through the roof. |
