How to Hit a Power Serve in Tennis

Tennis all starts with the serve. The first step to a dominant game is a dominant serve. Physical strength can help, but good technique is extremely beneficial. After learning the technique, practice repeatedly and you will be on your way to having a power serve.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Practice a smooth rhythm first and build up speed later. Practice your serve in slow motion repeatedly until it feels natural before working on speed. Understand the object is to transfer all the power of your body into the racket.
2. Throw the ball in front of you, not directly over head. The farther you throw the ball in front of you, the more power your serve will have. As your left hand moves up to throw the ball, move your left knee forward in unison with your arm. If you hold the racket with your left hand, reverse these directions.
3. Drive your legs upward toward the ball when the ball reaches its peak in the air. This will give you height and put the power of your legs into the serve.
4. Move your elbow forward first as you go up to hit the ball, allowing the racket to trail behind.
5. Ensure the face of the racket is square with the ball as you hit it.
6. Follow through with the power serve after you have hit the ball. This will ensure maximum effort is exerted and will also give you momentum to move into the tennis court to return your opponent's response.