How to Hit an Overhead in Tennis

From my instruction, you will learn how to hit an overhead(for a right hander) during a tennis match.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• tennis raquet
• tennis balls
• partner

1. First you need to get into the proper area for hitting an overhead. This is any where from the one big step inside the service line up until the net.

2. Next, you are going to turn your body so that your left shoulder is pointed towards the net. Your head should be looking right over the top of your left shoulder.

3. Next, you are going to get your racket back behind your head as if you were scratching your back. simultaneously, you want to raise your left hand to point at the ball.

4. Next, hit the ball at your highest reach(the top of your racket with your arm extended straight up) just in front of your body by reaching up and snapping your wrist down on the ball. This motion is very similar to throwing a baseball. Just act like the racket is an extension of your arm.

5. Lastly, follow through to your left side by your pocket. Your shoulders should end up pointing towards the target your were aiming at.

Tips & Warnings

• be sure to keep your head and left hand up all the way through the stroke.
• always keep your feet moving by taking quick, little shuffles.
• try not to focus on where the ball is going at first, but making good contact and the correct motion.
• watch Pete Sampras
• keep your eye on the ball, or you might get hit in the head ;)

Resources

• For more great tennis tips!

[jerryfriend15]

on 11/3/2008 thanks guys! let me know if there is anything else I could add as well

[Thims]

on 10/26/2008 Whiffffffff! ;-) Good instructions! I'm glad this article is not over my head!

[bigwood177]

on 7/29/2008 Well said! Clear, concise, easy-to-follow explanation.