How to Hit a Forehand Ground Stroke in Tennis

The forehand ground stroke is one of the most important fundamentals of tennis. Make sure you learn it right - you'll be using the ground stroke to cover about two-thirds of the baseline area.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Tennis Shirts
• Tennis Shoes
• Tennis Shorts
• Tennis Socks
• Sports Drinks
• Tennis Bag
• Tennis Balls
• Tennis Racquets

1. Choose one of several grips - Continental, Eastern, Semi-Western, or Western - depending on your style and manner of play. (See "How to Grip a Tennis Racket" under Related eHows.)
2. Assume the ready position.
3. Turn your shoulders and, with the help of your opposite arm, start bringing the racket back.
4. Swing the racket straight back or in a loop style. The faster the ball is coming, the quicker and straighter the backswing will be.
5. Hit the ground stroke with an open stance (feet and shoulders facing the net) or closed stance (crossing over with one foot), depending on preference and situation.
6. Throw the racket head into the ball, extending the arm completely. You should make contact with the ball at a point several inches in front of your body.
7. Finish with the racket up and over the opposite shoulder.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice hitting crosscourt first; this is the most commonly used shot. Crosscourt shots have the highest percentage of staying in - the ball travels over the lowest point of the net and has a greater distance to travel before going out.
• Practice hitting off the wall to establish good contact awareness, consistency and shot variation.
• Tennis is a physically demanding sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek the proper equipment and training before undertaking this activity.