Unhappy with your tennis forehand? Are you having a tough time getting the ball to clear the net? Are your opponents able to set up a lawn chair, read The Great Gatsby, then get up in time before one of your volleys makes its way into a hard smash from their racquet? Well, don't do anything silly. We're here to help.
Get Ready, Get Set
The foundation of any good tennis forehand is your foundation. Meaning: feet. Having your feet too far apart, or too close together, can minimize the power going into your forehand. To avoid this, get into a habit of keeping your feet roughly shoulder-width apart when your racquet makes contact with the ball.
Shoulder the Load
Hit not with your elbow or wrist, but lead with your shoulder. As the ball comes toward you, turn both shoulders toward it as you transition into a strike. Now, pivot on your far foot. With your other foot, step forward and across your body, planting it pointed at a 45-degree angle toward the net post. Simultaneously, swing the racquet backward while pulling it up from the ground.
The Hit
Stop your backswing when the head of the racquet is slightly below waist level and your arm is extended and relaxed. Both racquet and arm should be perpendicular to the net. It also helps to pause for a brief moment between backswing and moving forward with the forehand, as you can maintain better balance. When ready, begin driving the racquet forward with your shoulders. Do not allow your arm to change position and exert more pressure on the swing.
What a Waist
Hitting from up high (meaning your racquet is extended toward the sky) or down low (meaning the racquet is extended toward the ground) can reduce your power. To take control of your forehand, see that your racquet is hitting the ball at waist level, as your center will generate the most power.
Follow Through
Perhaps the most obvious point of advice in terms of increasing power is follow through with your stroke. If looking to hit from far back behind the net, follow through by driving the racquet forward so that it ends up above your shoulders, pointing up to the sky and in the direction of the ball you just hit.
Exercise
Improving your forehand may also mean improving your own hands…and arms…and shoulders. One exercise that can benefit your forehand is using stretch bands, much like the ones used by major league baseball players, to strengthen your shoulder. Consult with a trainer or tennis pro to determine what exercises and repetitions are right for your body.
 | Knowing the basic rules of tennis can make it easier to properly score your next casual singles or doubles game, and it really helps you enjoy tournaments on TV. |
The history of tennis stretches back to the days of medieval French monks, before tennis racquets or tennis tournaments were even contemplated. |
Learn how women's tennis evolved from a sport for the rich to the modern game where women and men can compete for equal prize money. |
If you don't know how to play tennis, you probably need an instructor. Bring these basics to your first class. |
Who invented tennis? Glance into the mists of history and watch the story wend its wild way. |
