Tip... "Try this Grip for your Serve"
Have you ever tried to convince a fairly new player to try this serve tip... change the serve grip? If you are like me most of your students have trouble with this coaching advise. One of the hardest things to do as a tennis player is to use a continental grip when you serve.
Practice bouncing a ball against the ground using a continental grip. At first all students report, cry or moan about how difficult this whole idea is. Students become exasperated when their balls going zinging past the net posts. And how many times has this happened after a failed serve attempt with the continental grip? The students looks at you as if to say, "Seeee....I can't do this!" But with repeated pracitce they soon experience some comfort with it. It is important to try to keep your hand relaxed(don't squeeze too tight). Next, do as some of the girls on the U.S.A. national junior team did when I observed them training. Use an abbreviated backswing with your racquet starting just above your shoulder with your arm bent.
The continental grip will eventually enable you to muster faster and more effective serves...you absolutely must use this grip.
|
Here are a few ways to practice and increase your chances for success. This may sound a little unconventional but give it a chance.
