How to Do a Forehand Volley in Tennis

The forehand volley in tennis is an important but, unfortunately, awkward and difficult shot to master. The open face of the racket causes a weakened wrist, the traditional ready position doesn't get you ready and the required footwork can leave you miles from the ball. To perform a forehand volley in tennis, follow these steps.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Move to where you can volley the tennis ball with strength and precision. If you can see that the shot is a forehand volley, get into forehand volley position (skipping the ready stance) as you arrive within volley range. Place the racket out in front of you at the projected height of the ball, keeping your wrist tight and your elbow partially extended.

2. Step into the volley with the foot on the other side of your racket hand as you keep the racket in a relatively stationary position. Allow the heel of your back foot (the foot on the same side as your forehand) to come off the ground to give you a forward weight shift.

3. Come immediately back to the ready position with your racket centered and your second hand (the one you use for a backhand) lightly on the grip of the racket. Keep the racket roughly waist high so you can respond to a high, low or mid-level volley as a return shot.

Tips & Warnings

• If you find that you have a weak wrist on the forehand volley, turn your wrist back towards you (dorsiflex the wrist) so the racket can't bounce back against a hard volley.

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