From Zero to Serve: The Ultimate Guide to Starting Tennis
Don’t know a forehand from a backhand? You’re not alone. Jumping into tennis can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. This manual is designed to help a complete first-meet beginner get started the right way with the proper approach, gear, and mindset. Whether you are picking up a racquet for the first time or your first time in many years, this is your guide
1) Get the right racquet – for beginners comfort and control are important.
Use a lightweight racquet with a mid-size head (100-110 sq. in). Ensure your grip fits your hand – not so tight you can’t release and not so loose you can’t hold on. Not only does a properly fitted racquet reduce odds of injury but also improves comfort and confidence while swinging.
2) Understand the basic grips – there are three grips to start with;
- Continental grip – serves and volleys
- Eastern grip – forehand groundstrokes
- Semi-western grip – top spins shots
Your coach will let you feel each one and will let you know when to use it.
3) Learn the Ready Position
Feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, racquet in front. The ready position will help keep you balanced and prepared for movement in any direction.
Often, discipline developed on the court, will transfer to school and social environments
4) Focus on contact point
the ball should be meeting your racquet slightly in front of your body at waist height. Please practice this with drop shots and rally with a partner.
5) Teach Yourself to Serve consistently To begin a point is to serve
Simply start with a contact and toss drill. Focus on just getting the ball over the net consistently, even if it is slow. Once you are confident in your ability to get the ball over the net take the time to learn the trophy position and then how to create spin.
6) Movement Over Muscle Footwork is more important than hitting the ball hard.
Be conscious of split-steps, small adjustment steps, and moving laterally to position yourself for every shot.
7) Be Patient with the Practicing Don’t expect to win matches in your first month.
The name of the game is repetition guided by a coach. Take part in quality private or group lessons and work on your practice once a week or more.
8) Recognize Small Victories Did you get your first serve over the net ?
Did you hit a forehand rally for 10 shots? That is progress worth celebrating. Each milestone is worth celebrating, it helps keep you motivated and inspired!
Conclusion Starting tennis is about building confidence on swing after the next. With the appropriate gear, quality coaching, and practice, you will surely make the jump from 0 to serving aces!
