How to Practice Effectively for Tennis

'The key to improving your skills and building good habits into your game is to practice effectively. That means that once you are out on the court, every ball you hit should be a concentrated effort. Use correct methods and don't waste time. Using the forehand as an example, here is a way to practice your stand still drills.' ' Bill Van Keuren, USPTR certified instructor and Director of Tennis at Eddie Farm Inn & Sports Resort.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

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

1. Warm up with short swings, then work back to the baseline taking fuller, stronger swings.
2. Work forehand first, then backhand.
3. Assume ready position for a stand still forehand.
4. Turn the shoulders, getting the racquet back, and pivot your feet.
5. Toss the ball out in front of you on an angle.
6. Step in as the ball bounces.
7. Take the stroke and swing through the ball.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice good stand still strokes and vary the strokes.
• Repeating the same practice routine helps develop consistency on your strokes.
• Develop your toss method, which you will use during your serve.
• Hit against a practice wall or backboard and use aids like a ball machine.