How to Practice Tennis
Tennis players who want to move beyond beginner level must devote time to refining their skills. The dexterity needed to volley a tough serve and send a backhand shot past your opponent does not occur naturally. Your tennis skills will only improve with hours of practice and a commitment to improvement.
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Instructions
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Rotate tennis courts in your community to find the right place to practice. Your primary court should feature well-maintained playing surfaces, nets and small storage areas for your personal items.
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Stretch your back, legs and arms prior to hitting the tennis courts for practice. It is important to spend 10 to 15 minutes before and after practice keeping your muscles loose to avoid cramping.
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Use the same tennis racket for practice and live matches to maintain your form. Novice tennis players should get comfortable with the handling of their racket as they practice to focus on fundamentals during matches.
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Wear comfortable clothing during tennis practice to avoid problems with your posture and form. Tight shorts, shirts and sweatshirts along with uncomfortable shoes draws your focus away from hitting the perfect volley back to your opponent.
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Line up targets along the base line to practice your serves from both sides of the court. You should place orange cones at one-foot intervals from side to side and aim for each cone as you strike the ball.
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Start to volley at the net with your practice partner and move back to the base line gradually. You should challenge your partner with forehand and backhand shots as you step back to decrease your reaction time to quick shots.
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Aim your backhand shots at the point where the base line meets the side line to refine this difficult skill. You can place a cone just inside the corners of the opposing court to give yourself a target.
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Ask a friend to score simulated games between you and your tennis partner to prepare for future matches. Your friend can call out the score after each point and rule on balls along the sidelines to help you create a competitive environment.
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Tips & Warnings
Search for a reliable tennis partner who can help you practice your skills on a regular basis. Agree to meet at a local park several times a week so you both can hone your forehand and backhand shots.
