I’ve noticed that a lot of players overlook one very important concept that’s absolutely crucial to succeeding at any level. I’m talking about that moment or split second right before you strike the ball, the prep-time.

What you do to get ready in advance will put you in a greater position to get the absolute most out of that upcoming stroke.

Not being in the correct position ahead of time will cause you to rush and do things quicker than you’d like. And often times, you’ll end up with an unwanted result.

1. Stay on your toes

Yes, I know this sounds easy, but if you analyze the play of others and that of your own, you’ll see how easy it is to become flat-footed which causes you to be late on almost every swing (…no matter how desperately you WANT and STRAIN to get to that ball).

To make this easier, try shuffling your feet from side to side. It’s extremely difficult to do this if your heals are touching court surface. It’ll keep you loose and your entire body in rhythm automatically.

2. Unlock Your legs

The term “legs of steel” is only for exercise videos and gym workouts but, for tennis, it’s the exact opposite.

You need to keep a slight bend in your legs (…not beyond 90 degrees) just enough until you feel a small crease in both knees. This will give you the ability to make the necessary movements quicker and easier.

This also lowers your center of gravity and keeps the muscles firing until you’re ready to explode into the next shot. Easier said than done (especially when you’re tired), I know. It’s expected for the body to wear down as the match progresses. You tend to stand straight up without even noticing.

Note: Strength and endurance training can help with this.

3. Ready Your Racket

Before the point starts, you MUST place the racket in the proper ready position.

I say this because, I’ve seen too many talented players lose points because they thought they could get their racket ready whenever they needed too.

What’s the correct way to position the racket?

Though it’s slightly different for many players. You’ll find for most, it’s held up with both hands about a foot in front of the chest with a slight tilt outward towards the net.

Note: Not hanging down by your ankles swaying back and forth.

And don’t just hold it up there without concern. You want to make sure you have the correct grip (western, eastern etc.) loosely in your hand so you’ll be able to switch as needed with each shot. There’s enough thinking being done out there already. Don’t complicate things more by having to rush.

4. Crack and Go!

Don’t wait until you see the ball coming over the net to start moving. There’s absolutely NO WAY that any human being can get ready that fast and execute the right shot consistently!

So, don’t feel bad if you’ve tried, it’s impossible . Faster than the speed of sound, I think not. Look at a pro like Roger Federer, his racket is cocked as soon as the other player’s racket strikes the ball.

How do they do that? Well, it’s not about what they see. It’s what they hear. To get the best jump on the ball, you want to move as soon as you hear the infamous “CRACK” sound.

That, my friend, will keep you ready for anything. Stay tuned for next week’s tip.

Have a good weekend, and have a great game!

All the best,

Brian Hall, Head Coach