Things You'll Need:
- Tennis racquet
- Tennis balls
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Step 1
As your opponent takes his position for service, you can get into a general position of coverage. The closer to the center line he stands, the closer to the middle of the return area you can stand. If he moves further out, adjust slightly out as well, knowing that the shot will most likely go across court, but could still go center.
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Step 2
As your opponent goes into his serve, pay close attention to the position of his shoulders. The shoulder on the racquet side should give you an indication of where the ball is targeted as he swings into the shot.
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Step 3
The position of the head of the racquet can also lead you into what type of shot your opponent is planning to serve. When the racquet comes up and is angled just slightly out, you’ll most likely receive a slice. When the racquet come up and is angled out, you’ll most likely receive a top spin. When the racquet come up and is flattened out, you’ll most likely receive a straight shot.
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Step 4
Where the racquet falls behind the head can also give you an indication of the sort of serve your opponent is sending your way. When it falls open and flat, there’s not going to be a lot of spin so the ball will bounce closer to the ground. When it falls open and up, they’ll most likely be coming underneath the ball and adding some backspin.
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Step 5
The speed in which the racquet hits the ball is another, more obvious indication of what type of serve you’ll be receiving. The faster the swing, not only indicates the rate of the ball, but also the rate of the spin and what kind of kick it will have when it hits the court.
