Improving the basics.

Hi everyone!

Returning to the basics and improving your ground strokes is the best way to improve your game. Using a wall is the way to do this. There are four simple skills you should keep in mind when improving your tennis game with a wall.

1. Follow through. You want to make sure the ball reaches the wall at the point just above where a net would be. Your follow through is what lifts the ball over the net. Remember to go from low to high when swinging. 

2. Don't angle your racquet. The racquet should be parallel to the ground. This is what will keep the ball from flying excessively high in the air or going into the net.

3. Keep your eye on the ball. If your eye is on the ball it will be easier to control where the ball goes on the other side of the net. Also, it will allow you to hit the ball in the central part of the racquet or the "sweet spot" to maximize the force and spin you can put on the ball.

4. Don't get to close to the ball. If you are too close it is harder to follow through on your stroke and the ball is harder to control. If you are too close it can make for a awkward shot. The same is true for if you are too far away from the ball. The stroke won't be able to be set up and you won't be able to place the ball where you want it to go.

Additionally, when you are hitting against a wall your hits should be light, since you are so close to the wall. If you remember all these helpful hints and practice every day for about an hour your game can be improved significantly. A good short game is key to a good long game.