How to hit a Powerful Forehand

In tennis, more winning points come from a well-placed forehand shot than any other stroke. When you can consistently place the ball where you want it with your forehand, it's time to work on power. Follow some tips and techniques from the pros to develop a powerful forehand.

Instructions

1. Prepare early to hit the ball. With practice, you will learn to judge the ball's path from the instant it leaves your opponent's racquet. Get your racquet back well in advance of hitting and keep your eye on the ball at all times.

2. Step into the shot and shift your body weight forward. Although you can hit a powerful forehand when your weight is on your back foot, it's easier to control the ball when you step in. To achieve this, you may have to back up while the ball is in the air.

3. Return the tennis ball after it bounces unless you're approaching the net. After the bounce, just as the ball is reaching its highest point, slam it with your forehand.

4. Use topspin to keep the ball from flying over the fence. The only way to bring a powerful shot down to your opponent's court is by using topspin. This is accomplished by holding your racquet low behind your body and swinging upwards as you hit. The face of your racquet tips downwards and makes contact with the top portion of the ball, causing it to spin.

5. Focus on placement. For a powerful forehand to be successful, it must hit a portion of your opponent's court where he can't return it.

6. Practice your forehand to get the correct stroke before trying to add a lot of power. Until you can control the ball, it won't help you to slam it. In fact, it could cost you the point.

7. Watch professional tennis players on TV and pay special attention to the way they hold their racquets during slow motion recaps. Notice the low-to-high pattern and practice that the next time you're on the court.