How to Hit an Inside-Out Forehand in Tennis

If you're like most tennis players, your forehand is a better groundstroke than your backhand. When hitting an inside-out forehand, run around your backhand and hit the ball crosscourt, stroking the ball from the inside of the court to the outside. This way, you hit your most powerful shot to your opponent's weaker side; assuming you are both right-handed.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Adjust to the grip you would normally use when hitting a forehand. Most players use the Eastern grip; for more on how to do this, see related eHow article titled "How to Grip a Tennis Racket."

2. Use efficient footwork to position yourself for an inside-out forehand. If you are standing at the center of the baseline, swing your right foot behind your left so that your body is perpendicular to the net. Then, run backwards to the ad side of the court.

3. Swing your racket behind you, keeping your wrist angled back so that it's roughly perpendicular to your forearm.

4. Stroke the ball from low to high. To aim the ball crosscourt, make sure your wrist is still angled back as the racket makes contact with the ball.

5. Follow through. As you hit the ball, rotate your shoulders so that they are square with the net and transfer your weight to your front leg.

Tips & Warnings

• These instructions are for right-handed tennis players. If you are left-handed and playing a right-handed opponent, your crosscourt forehand will go to your opponent's backhand side, giving you a definite advantage.
• Resist the urge to side-shuffle to the ad court. Not only does it take longer than running backwards, but your body is not in the proper position once you get there.

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