How to Improve a Backhand Volley in Tennis
Serve and volley may not be the dominant style of tennis it once was, but even if you're a big hitting baseliner, the ability to come to net to finish points is something that will add great variety and dimension to your game.
Many baseliners are reluctant to leave their comfort zone and come to the net, and so neglect their volleying skills. What better way though, to separate yourself from other baseliners, than to improve your volley and give yourself more options on the court?
The backhand volley remains one of the most stylish shots in tennis, and with a little practice, it's a shot that will make you a better all-round player.
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Instructions
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Get a grip! The Continental grip is the best choice, since you're able to use it on both backhand and forehand volleys. Approaching the net and having to quickly switch between forehand and backhand grips, depending on which side the ball comes to you, is a tall order. Instead, hold the racket out in front with a Continental grip, so adjustments can be made quickly. Make sure also, that your weight is on the balls of your feet, so that you're able to move quickly into the right volleying position.
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Turn. Many beginners try to hit a backhand volley in an open stance, facing the net. As a result, they usually end up dragging the ball across their body and hitting wide. Assuming that you're right-handed, you'll want to make sure to rotate the shoulders counter-clockwise so that you're sideways to the net.
With your left hand on the throat of the racket as a guide, bring back the racket for the backswing. Keeping the backswing short is key, so the racket shouldn't go back too far; certainly no further back than your right shoulder. -
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Step forward. With your body in this closed stance, step forward and across with your right foot, and move into the shot. Your wrist should be firm and the racquet head should be above the wrist. This will help keep your wrist stable, which is integral to a successful volley.
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Push off. Make sure that you transfer the weight forward from your left foot and onto your right, in the direction of the intended shot. Hitting the ball out in front and keeping your wrist firm throughout will minimize errors, and the momentum you get from stepping into the shot will give you more punch to the volley.
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Spread your wings. As you hit the volley, your hands should separate, with your non-racket hand moving backwards as a counterbalance to your racket hand as it moves forward. This will help you to maintain your balance throughout the shot.
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Keep your eye on the ball all the way to your racket. Even after contact, it's a good idea to continue to focus on your strings. Getting into that habit is a great way to avoid the temptation to glance around the court to look at your opponent before the shot is complete.
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Open up. Make sure that you return to an open stance after the shot, facing the net, and returning to the balls of your feet in readiness for the next shot. Ideally, the next shot should see you moving even closer to the net for a final put-away volley, but your opponent may opt for a lob, so you'll need to be ready to move quickly in any event. A common mistake is to stand flat-footed and admire your volley as it crosses the net. If the ball does come back, you'll likely have trouble making the necessary footwork adjustments to get off the mark quickly.
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Tips & Warnings
Try to meet the ball at around eye level. If the volley is on the low side, make sure you get down to the ball by bending the knees and maintaining your form. This way, you'll stay at eye level with the ball, which will really help your accuracy. Bending at the waist for a low volley is a very low percentage play. Work on strengthening your wrist so that it will remain firm on your volleys. A good way to do this is to simulate your volleying motion while holding a 2-lb. hand weight or small dumbbell.
When practicing volleys on the practice court, don't stand too close to the net. It's unrealistic, since most volleys will be played from further back. If you get used to being fed volleys that are easy to put away because you're right up close to the net, you're liable to end up with a false sense of security about your volleying prowess. It's going to be very frustrating when you're being forced to hit them from deep in the service box, when you get into a match situation with an opponent who's not as accommodating as your practice partner.
