How to hit a decent tennis forehand
In order to be able to hit a decent tennis forehand you need to follow a few simple and basic steps.
1. Positioning
First of all you need to position yourself correctly in order to hit a good forehand shot. To achieve this you need to place yourself on the trajectory of the incoming ball. More, you need to correctly predict the bounce of the ball.
Observe the way your opponent hits the ball. You can notice if he sends a flat shot or ads any kind of spin to it. This way you will be able to accurately predict the bounce pattern and position yourself correctly for a return.
2. Rotate your shoulders
After getting into the right spot on the court for hitting the ball you are ready to actually proceed with the forehand shot. In this step you net to withdraw the tennis racket by rotating your shoulders. At this stage continue to keep your second hand on the racket while turning.
3. Swing the racket
It’s the moment to take your second hand off the racket and swing the racket further back in order to reach the optimum swing pattern. In the same time make sure that you switch your weight balance on the outside leg as seen in the picture posted above.
4. Contact Point
By now the incoming ball should be very close from reaching your ideal hitting point. Start the hitting motion by pushing yourself and getting maximum power from the outside leg. Your and your racket should face the net by now and establish the hitting point.
5. Follow Through
After a hitting the ball continue your circularly motion of the swing pattern and use your body in order to absorb the shock produced by the acceleration and the actual hit. Your arm and racket should have a long and smooth follow through movement.
Please note that the forehand shot is a continuous movement. The racket doesn’t have to stop during the entire shot. There are multiple types of forehand shots, depending on the grip used by every player. However this will be analyzed some other time.
Memorize the above explained 5 steps, practice and you will be able to hit a great forehand. Good luck!