Forehand (No power + all Topspin)

[GoWilliamsSisters]

Hi, I have a problem with my forehand. I use a semi-western grip for my forehand. I cannot hit a flat shot. When ever I play someone dinks the ball i end up hitting into the net or shanking it. I am hitting all topspin and all my balls go short. I play well against someone that hits with a lot of topspin or a hardhitter because I guess I am using all wrist. I also feel comfortable hitting low balls but I cant hit the highbouncing deep balls with comfort. I also have trouble hitting it to the duece side and a lot of my balls go to the ad side (forehand). I am having trouble using my power. Its not like i'm weak its just i use all topspin. Can someone help?

[dozu]

this should be easy to fix... rather than trying to force yourself to hit a flat shot, just change the trajectory of the shot, it will still have topspin and will land deeper.

if you constantly hit balls into the net, make sure if the ball comes at you with no pace, you need to maintain some knee bend so that there is lower body lift into the shot.... many people will stand flat footed if the incoming ball has no pace, and end up just using the arm to throw the racket at the ball, and very likely the ball goes into the net.

[Rickson]

Hi, I have a problem with my forehand. I use a semi-western grip for my forehand. I cannot hit a flat shot. When ever I play someone dinks the ball i end up hitting into the net or shanking it. I am hitting all topspin and all my balls go short. I play well against someone that hits with a lot of topspin or a hardhitter because I guess I am using all wrist. I also feel comfortable hitting low balls but I cant hit the highbouncing deep balls with comfort. I also have trouble hitting it to the duece side and a lot of my balls go to the ad side (forehand). I am having trouble using my power. Its not like i'm weak its just i use all topspin. Can someone help?
All wrist? You should be using your body, legs, and arm, not just your wrist. If you use a proper unit turn, you'll gain a lot more power in your forehand. Stop brushing up so much too because intentional swiping up at the ball will cause loopy forehands.

[blue03]

i have the same problem before, and many people in this forum suggest me to hit a higher top spin accross the net. the ball will land deep and bounce even deeper. trust me. it helps :)

[LowProfile]

I also had this problem. Instead of trying to consciously flatten the ball, I worked on taking it early instead with a full, outward swing and that helped me get more penetration on my forehand. After getting the muscle memory for this, I was able to start working it consciously into my game.

Another thing you can do is hit for about 5 minutes aiming to have all the balls go into the fence without a bounce. Make sure you keep the racquet face closed and get your depth through swinging through the ball rather than with an open racquet face. After a while of this, relax your swings a little and you should see a big improvement.

[MTChong]

Now let me ask a question; this might also be the culprit. Are you jumping?

[paulfreda]

I think I know exactly what your problem is.
Nearly all coaches (off the tour) over-emphasize the importance of topspin and teach the low to high brushing motion. This will result in exactly the type of shot you are getting .... lots of top with little drive.

To fix this you need to learn the Lansdorp method of finishing with the tip of your racquet pointing toward the target and your laid back wrist straightening out so it (the racquet) finishes in line with your forearm all pointed at the target. You will now be hitting THRU the ball rather than brushing up behind the ball.

The pro game has gone this way ever since the Williams girls showed up and brought pace and flat shots back to the game. Watch Sharapova or Blake hit a FH. They still go a bit low to high but they drive thru the ball. Fed you will notice swings around his body and finishes sometimes below his shoulder.

Just drive the ball ..... hitting flat. Once you see the power/pace you can get consistently, then go back and add some brushing for control. Good luck !!

[superbooga]

Do what Rickson said.

Also, at this moment, try decreasing racket speed by relaxing your hand and arm, and using body rotation to "pull" the racket. Your arm and shoulders should be doing very little work. For groundstrokes, this motion is essentially for power and stability.

Try this right now: Assuming you're right-handed, put your left hand in front of you, and use a racket swinging motion to hit your left hand with your right hand (not too hard of course). Do it with and without the motion described above. You should notice how much more mass behind the right hand there is with the motion than without.

Once you have the hang of this, you can try adding more of the arm element to increase racket speed, which increases spin.

[jackabee]

Make sure you are hitting through the ball - you need to make sure you are using your entire body and body weight to bend into the ball - get your body over the ball and hit thru the ball! :)

Good luck!

[JacktheDu]

Have you try lowering you string's tension or change to a higher power string? By doing so, the ball should get more forward power.

[Bungalo Bill]

Hi, I have a problem with my forehand. I use a semi-western grip for my forehand. I cannot hit a flat shot. When ever I play someone dinks the ball i end up hitting into the net or shanking it. I am hitting all topspin and all my balls go short. I play well against someone that hits with a lot of topspin or a hardhitter because I guess I am using all wrist. I also feel comfortable hitting low balls but I cant hit the highbouncing deep balls with comfort. I also have trouble hitting it to the duece side and a lot of my balls go to the ad side (forehand). I am having trouble using my power. Its not like i'm weak its just i use all topspin. Can someone help?

You are most likely swinging too much from the elbow. You have very little shoulder rotation into the ball and you are not leading the racquet forward and upward on an lesser angle.

Have someone feed you slow balls. When you swing forward pretend you are pulling a towel out of the hands of someone behind you. Or pretend you are hammering a nail sideways.

When you make contact, go forward towards the target with your hand finishing in front of your forehead and out for about 3 seconds. Balance yourself.

This will not be your normal finish but it will help you feel how to lengthen your stroke. Also, there is nothing wrong with the windshield wiping motion so long as your racquet head goes through the ball out and then up and around.

Watch the masters:

http://www.uspta.com/html/e-lesson-Open%20stance%20forehand%201.swf

http://www.uspta.com/html/e-lesson-Open%20stance%20forehand%202.swf

http://www.uspta.com/html/e-lesson-Running%20forehand.swf

Notice the use of the non-dominant arm. Notice they go outward and around even with their different styles. Notice the hammer likse motion before they hit the ball. Notice how they prepare the racquet, etc...etc...etc...

[GoWilliamsSisters]

Hey thanks for the quick replies. Well sometimes i have to jump when the ball is deep and has a lot of topspin. I think I am not locking my elbow and keeping it close to my body. I took a couple private lessons a while ago and I fixed it but then I didnt play for 1 week and my forehand became a mess. I can easily hit a slie. I also hit the ball better and harder with a faster racquet speed. I noticed I cannot hit the ball with a slow racquet speed. I'm using the momentum to apply power to my balls. Sometimes I can hit a clean shot but the ball has to be low and in the right spot. Thanks for your help so far.

[Ryoma]

From what I can see, you seem to lack the unit turn. It is likely that you do not use trunk rotation to initiate your groundstroke. Go to the uspta website and check out the groundstroke. http://www.uspta.com/html/e-lesson-Open%20stance%20forehand%201.swf

[Bungalo Bill]

Hey thanks for the quick replies. Well sometimes i have to jump when the ball is deep and has a lot of topspin. I think I am not locking my elbow and keeping it close to my body. I took a couple private lessons a while ago and I fixed it but then I didnt play for 1 week and my forehand became a mess. I can easily hit a slie. I also hit the ball better and harder with a faster racquet speed. I noticed I cannot hit the ball with a slow racquet speed. I'm using the momentum to apply power to my balls. Sometimes I can hit a clean shot but the ball has to be low and in the right spot. Thanks for your help so far.

So my confusion is why ask us if you knew what the problem was? If you took lessons a couple weeks ago and the pro helped you, why would you ask us when we have never seen you play?

[travlerajm]

Just make sure your your backswing is high. If you watch all the pros, almost everyone takes the racquet back above the head. If you start from a higher elevation, it will be harder to let the racquet drop down too low behid the ball.

[Bungalo Bill]

Just make sure your your backswing is high. If you watch all the pros, almost everyone takes the racquet back above the head. If you start from a higher elevation, it will be harder to let the racquet drop down too low behid the ball.

HUH? What? :confused:

[Rickson]

Just make sure your your backswing is high. If you watch all the pros, almost everyone takes the racquet back above the head. If you start from a higher elevation, it will be harder to let the racquet drop down too low behid the ball.
Above the head? You sure about that?

[Bungalo Bill]

Above the head? You sure about that?

It's BS, Rickson, a high backswing doesnt guarantee anything. If it were that easy we wouldn't need to know anything else.

[Rickson]

It's BS, Rickson, a high backswing doesnt guarantee anything. If it were that easy we wouldn't need to know anything else.
I've only seen Moya do that above the head takeback so I don't agree with the statement about most pros using it and I have never used that high a takeback ever.

[TennisAsAlways]

An exaggerated takeback that peaks above the head and/or far behind the body is usually more difficult to time than a more conservative takeback. I personally would not recommend exaggerated backswings. Claycourt specialists tend to have longer takebacks, since generally there's more time to line up shots on clay. I think it's better to develop swings to suit faster surfaces, however, I am not suggesting abbreviated backswings, just not exaggerated ones.

[TennisAsAlways]

http://www.filelodge.com/files/room13/314282/My%20Edit%20of%20USPTA%20high%20speed%20FH%20cli%5 B.gif

[Bungalo Bill]

http://www.filelodge.com/files/room13/314282/My%20Edit%20of%20USPTA%20high%20speed%20FH%20cli%5 B.gif

PRICELESS; There are some things money can't buy. For everybody else - keep practicing.

[Rickson]

http://www.filelodge.com/files/room13/314282/My%20Edit%20of%20USPTA%20high%20speed%20FH%20cli%5 B.gif
Tommy's takeback is right at head level which is where I take mine. If it seems above his head, it might be because he's crouching down, but his takeback is definitely not what I'd call an above the head takeback.

[travlerajm]

I'm not BSing about the backswing being above the head on many of the best pro forehands. Hewitt, Gonzales, and Agassi are the best examples that come to mind, and yes, even Federer takes it back above his head. If you don't believe me, check out the Tennisone Pro Strokes Gallery.

[travlerajm]

And to clarify - I'm not referring to exaggerated takebacks - I just mean that the racquet head is at a higher elevation than the player's head, even when the takeback is compact like Agassi's.

[Bungalo Bill]

I'm not BSing about the backswing being above the head on many of the best pro forehands. Hewitt, Gonzales, and Agassi are the best examples that come to mind, and yes, even Federer takes it back above his head. If you don't believe me, check out the Tennisone Pro Strokes Gallery.

I am trying to figure out what in the world does as a particular backswing have to do with topspin and power?

For a person trying to learn to hit topspin it is best to have them just simply bring the racquet to thigh high and swing up. They learn to utilize their trunk, legs, and shoulder to make clean contact with topspin.

Please tell me what are you talking about. Also, a pros backswing is well trained. It absolutely does not mean a club player should copy it. The backswing develops as the player develops.

I know all about backswings so I dont have to look. But you dont have a clue what your saying and why.

[tennisadict]

this should be easy to fix... rather than trying to force yourself to hit a flat shot, just change the trajectory of the shot, it will still have topspin and will land deeper.

if you constantly hit balls into the net, make sure if the ball comes at you with no pace, you need to maintain some knee bend so that there is lower body lift into the shot.... many people will stand flat footed if the incoming ball has no pace, and end up just using the arm to throw the racket at the ball, and very likely the ball goes into the net.
yeah try that during doubles

[travlerajm]

I am trying to figure out what in the world does as a particular backswing have to do with topspin and power?

For a person trying to learn to hit topspin it is best to have them just simply bring the racquet to thigh high and swing up. They learn to utilize their trunk, legs, and shoulder to make clean contact with topspin.

Please tell me what are you talking about. Also, a pros backswing is well trained. It absolutely does not mean a club player should copy it. The backswing develops as the player develops.

I know all about backswings so I dont have to look. But you dont have a clue what your saying and why.

A lot of players (myself included) were taught how you describe, where you should focus on the low to high swing. This approach messed up my forehand, and many years later I'm still trying to overcome the effects of bad teaching. It's much more important to drive forward through the ball. And if you want topspin, you'll have the best results by making sure the racquet drops only a small amount below the ball. Starting out with a high backswing is the best way to ensure that your racquet doesn't drop too low, so that you can still drive through the ball well. And if you decide that you're not getting enough topspin that way, I suggest that you should just switch to a more flexible frame. Many a player ruins his strokes trying to worry about hitting low to high with a stiff frame, when a flatter trajectory swing with a flexible frame would be a better way to get more spin.

[Bungalo Bill]

A lot of players (myself included) were taught how you describe, where you should focus on the low to high swing. This approach messed up my forehand, and many years later I'm still trying to overcome the effects of bad teaching.

Maybe it wasn't bad teaching. I also learned under the same guidelines and didnt have any trouble incorporating a backswing. Maybe it is just you and not the teaching.

If you are still trying to overcome something that can easily be overcome, you are either exaggerating or should take up another sport! It is so easy to add a backswing into the picture for a forehand it is sickening.

My 6 year old son can do it.

It's much more important to drive forward through the ball. And if you want topspin, you'll have the best results by making sure the racquet drops only a small amount below the ball.

Drive forward? It is much more important? Isn't that what I am saying? Driving the racquet forward from the butt cap IS EXACTLY what going from low to high teaches. Adding a loop for the backswing is EASY! Right now, with just these words, I can now tell you absolutely have no clue what you or anyone else is talking about.

Starting out with a high backswing is the best way to ensure that your racquet doesn't drop too low, so that you can still drive through the ball well.

Are you serious? This is a joke right? Driving through the ball has nothing to do with the backswing. It has to do with the FORWARD swing. A player can incorporate the proper FORWARD swing with a short-take back, no-takeback, and a long-takeback. The takeback is not the issue it is bringing the racquet to the ball at the correct angle upward to impart topspin and drive at the same time. This is easiest taught with a simple backswing and a player just concentrating on the forward part of the swing.

And if you decide that you're not getting enough topspin that way, I suggest that you should just switch to a more flexible frame.Many a player ruins his strokes trying to worry about hitting low to high with a stiff frame, when a flatter trajectory swing with a flexible frame would be a better way to get more spin.

So what you are saying is, if a player gets a flexible frame, the ball won't travel as far. Therefore, they do not need to try and impart so much topspin (steep angle upward) to keep the ball in the court as they would with their stiffer frame which adds power into the ball. Is that correct?

The problem with your theory is the failure to consider that a stroke pattern has been developed and engrained. Meaning it is quite possible that if a player switched to the flexible frame, they would still be swinging steeple upward and create more problems for themselves. In fact, the player may actually hate the more flexible frame and switch back to the stiffer frame.

You need to consider ALL the factors that are going into someone imparting too much topspin and not enough drive. In this case, it is not the racquet. It is the stroke. The stroke needs to be solved from a "back to the basics" approach. A lot of things need to be unlearned. That takes time.

The rememdy is not a higher backswing or a new racquet, it is simply learning to swing upward to the ball at a certain angle. Once this is mastered the backswing is a very natural extention when you place the stroke slightly underpressure and let the person go a little.

[travlerajm]

Maybe it wasn't bad teaching. I also learned under the same guidelines and didnt have any trouble incorporating a backswing. Maybe it is just you and not the teaching.

If you are still trying to overcome something that can easily be overcome, you are either exaggerating or should take up another sport! It is so easy to add a backswing into the picture for a forehand it is sickening.

My 6 year old son can do it.

So what you are saying is, if a player gets a flexible frame, the ball won't travel as far. Therefore, they do not need to try and impart so much topspin (steep angle upward) to keep the ball in the court as they would with their stiffer frame which adds power into the ball. Is that correct?


Dude, I'm just a humble player with only $1300 in career prize money and only a few years of experience coaching nationally ranked juniors, trying to help someone out. No need to go on the offensive.

You're missing my point entirely on the flexible racquet suggestion. The reason all top players use flexible frames is because it allows you to generate WAY more spin than with a stiff frame. Fed can hit those amazing dipping passes only because his racquet has a thin 17-mm beam. It has nothing to do with having less power. It allows you to hit lots of spin while taking a flatter, more reliable cut at the ball.

[Bungalo Bill]

Dude, I'm just a humble player with only $1300 in career prize money and only a few years of experience coaching nationally ranked juniors, trying to help someone out. No need to go on the offensive.

You're missing my point entirely on the flexible racquet suggestion. The reason all top players use flexible frames is because it allows you to generate WAY more spin than with a stiff frame. Fed can hit those amazing dipping passes only because his racquet has a thin 17-mm beam. It has nothing to do with having less power. It allows you to hit lots of spin while taking a flatter, more reliable cut at the ball.

I could really careless "how much money you have made on "tour" if you call it that. Most tennis players have no clue what they are doing regarding teaching players to play better tennis nor can solve problems without telling them to get new shoes, strings, or racquets as you did. When someone tells someone to get a new racquet a HUGE RED FLAG goes up.

Players can generate plenty of topspin with a stiffer frame as well. Case in point, the Babalot Pure Drive. Also, a more flexible frame does not guarentee a player will generate more spin as when I tried the Head Prestige in comparison to the old Volkl Tour 10 I have been using for awhile.

Further, I have recently swtiched to the Babalot Pure Control 98 head size and generate MUCH more spin than with my Volkl Tour 10. This racquet is stiffer. So I guess that sort of blows your thinking out pretty much doesn't it?

It is not that I disagree with you, it is that you are EXAGGERATING the numbers or the percentages as to how much a more flexible frame will really add as compared to "fixing the players" swing path. I can tell you this, fixing the latter will by far add more topspin. The later, with better technique, they can checkout new equipment.

Fixing the later will also hepp the player achieve their goals by hitting a more penetrating flatter ball with topspin. No racquet is going to solve a ppoor swing path. Sorry!

Remember, good players don't always make good coaches. You have a lot to learn in coaching.

[travlerajm]

Maybe it is just you and not the teaching.

If you are still trying to overcome something that can easily be overcome, you are either exaggerating or should take up another sport! It is so easy to add a backswing into the picture for a forehand it is sickening.

My 6 year old son can do it.

I can now tell you absolutely have no clue what you or anyone else is talking about.

You have a lot to learn in coaching.

You might want to read TW Policies, rule number 2 before you post again.

[Bungalo Bill]

You might want to read TW Policies, rule number 2 before you post again.


Awwwwww...well here is my opinion. Your tip on racquet flex to help the poster was poor. The backswing thingy was poor too. You have a lot to learn about coaching tennis.

Your information regarding the results about topspin was exaggerated, isolated, and weak. But that is just my opinion.

I would suggest that you learn more about teaching tennis then playing it. That might help. Also, it is my opinion, that you might need to be a little tougher with your statements. You had no substance.

I debated your tip and felt it was poor. I offered my opinion and feel you should not be giving advice - at least not yet. :)

[TennisAsAlways]

You might want to read TW Policies, rule number 2 before you post again.TW Message Board Policies

2. No personal attacks or abusive language is allowed. If you have a problem with someone, take it off of Talk Tennis. Antagonistic behavior will not be tolerated. Debating issues and opinions is fine, but flaming and insulting won’t be tolerated.
___________________________________________

I did not notice anything that BB wrote in this thread that was "abusive". As far as "personal attacks", he was only stating his "opinions" — what he felt.

You made (a) claim(s) that others ended up challenging, and the way that things were perceived, after being questioned about YOUR claim(s), you did not have any substantial support for your claim(s); what you had provided in support of your claim(s) were apparently unsatisfactory to those who questioned you.

Oh, so now what? Since "I" happen to be "replying" to YOU, does this mean that "I" am "PERSONALLY ATTACKING" YOU??? :rolleyes:

LOL, Bungalo Bill is "attacking and/or abusing YOU, LOL. One simply cannot accept the fact that in reality it happens to be that others may point out some things that are NOT agreed upon? And, one is not willing to, or does not, understand what the difference is between "debating" (to bring about CLARIFIFCATION within a discusison) and "attacking/abusing"? *sighs*

That's all.

Good day now. 8)

[Bungalo Bill]

TW Message Board Policies

2. No personal attacks or abusive language is allowed. If you have a problem with someone, take it off of Talk Tennis. Antagonistic behavior will not be tolerated. Debating issues and opinions is fine, but flaming and insulting won’t be tolerated.
___________________________________________

I did not notice anything that BB wrote in this thread that was "abusive". As far as "personal attacks", he was only stating his "opinions" — what he felt.

You made (a) claim(s) that others ended up challenging, and the way that things were perceived, after being questioned about YOUR claim(s), you did not have any substantial support for your claim(s); what you had provided in support of your claim(s) were apparently unsatisfactory to those who questioned you.

Oh, so now what? Since "I" happen to be "replying" to YOU, does this mean that "I" am "PERSONALLY ATTACKING" YOU??? :rolleyes:

LOL, Bungalo Bill is "attacking and/or abusing YOU, LOL. One simply cannot accept the fact that in reality it happens to be that others may point out some things that are NOT agreed upon? And, one is not willing to, or does not, understand what the difference is between "debating" (to bring about CLARIFIFCATION within a discusison) and "attacking/abusing"? *sighs*

That's all.

Good day now. 8)

The problem is weak minds and flashy strokes. ;)
================================================== ====
Coach Boone (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000243/): Petey, how many feet are in a mile? How many feet are in a mile?
Petey Jones (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0265668/): [mumbles]
Coach Boone (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000243/): 5,280 feet! You pick this ball up and run every one of 'em! You're killing me, Petey! You're killing me!

[GoWilliamsSisters]

the problem is i keep framing the ball. Especially when I come in for an approach shot or i have a lot of time to prepare fore the ball.

[Thaimyshoe]

try taking a short backswing and going through the ball more. Then gradually add more of a backswing to it and it will get eventually better

[jarofmy]

sorry guys, I didn't take the time to read all the posts within this thread, but I seem to have a reoccuring problem when I hit topspin shots. Whenever I try to hit a topspin forehand (I use Semi-Western/Western), the ball tends to keep on wanting to hit the net. When I try hitting higher, the ball goes long. I'm not sure what my problem is, but if anyone can give me some good insight as to how to fix this problem, I would really appreciate it.

[Bungalo Bill]

the problem is i keep framing the ball. Especially when I come in for an approach shot or i have a lot of time to prepare fore the ball.

If you are approaching, getting closer and closer to the ball, you need to shorten the backswing. The closer you get the shorter the backswing gets. A volley doesn't have a backswing. A groundstroke has a backswing. Anything in between adjustments need to be made accordingly. Read up on System 5 and the how the backswing relates to the area of the court in question.

The other factor on short balls is your eyes. When approaching and salivating over your next putaway, don't run in such a way that your eyes bounce around. Level headed running or moving needs to be learned and practiced. In other words, you need to move quickly with your feet but not in a bouncing manner.

The other area is focus. You must focus on the ball and as long as possible. In your minds eye, take your aim on where you will hit it. Also, in your mind you should know where you will position yourself following your shot for the possible reply from your opponent.

[Bungalo Bill]

sorry guys, I didn't take the time to read all the posts within this thread, but I seem to have a reoccuring problem when I hit topspin shots. Whenever I try to hit a topspin forehand (I use Semi-Western/Western), the ball tends to keep on wanting to hit the net. When I try hitting higher, the ball goes long. I'm not sure what my problem is, but if anyone can give me some good insight as to how to fix this problem, I would really appreciate it.

There is a high chance you are simply skimming the ball to try and get MASSIVE topspin.

Most players do not want to build their topspin gradually. They want heavy topspin that penetrates like mini explosions deep on the opponents side of the court. In reality, this takes practice.

For now, practice going through the ball and being satisfied with the topspin you get from a low to high swing. Your arm will naturally rise as you lift it up and hit through the ball. If you try to whip it, chop it, roll it, skim it, twist it, wrap it, wipe it, or turn it, you will quite possibly develop a bad habit.

As you practice using your natural rise through the ball, topspin will occur. You may want more. That is okay. But let it happen through good technique.

[AMD64]

i have opposite problem.. i have no topspin.. and when i try to give topspin, i just scoop my ball right out of the court

[Bungalo Bill]

i have opposite problem.. i have no topspin.. and when i try to give topspin, i just scoop my ball right out of the court

Drooping the head of your racquet will scoop it long. Getting under the ball with poor balance will also cause you to hit long. Improper positioning to the ball could cause you to lunge and hit under the ball.

Practice with a slow feed. Keep a level square racquet (or slightly angled forward). Keep that position as long as possible as you hit through the ball going low to high. Hit the ball and brush it at the same time. Loop the ball 6 feet over the net. Try to keep it deep.

[Juksosah]

Practice with a slow feed. Keep a level square racquet (or slightly angled forward). Keep that position as long as possible as you hit through the ball going low to high. Hit the ball and brush it at the same time. Loop the ball 6 feet over the net. Try to keep it deep.

I got the same problem than AMD64, but i'm pretty sure my positionning is good.

From backswing to contact point, what should be the path of the racquet for topspin ?? I heard low to high, but I don't see how I could start low without 1) dropping racquet head or 2) bending my knees. If I bend my knees then It'll screw up my stroke because I will raise during my swing trying to achieve this low-to-high thing.

[jarofmy]

There is a high chance you are simply skimming the ball to try and get MASSIVE topspin.

Most players do not want to build their topspin gradually. They want heavy topspin that penetrates like mini explosions deep on the opponents side of the court. In reality, this takes practice.

For now, practice going through the ball and being satisfied with the topspin you get from a low to high swing. Your arm will naturally rise as you lift it up and hit through the ball. If you try to whip it, chop it, roll it, skim it, twist it, wrap it, wipe it, or turn it, you will quite possibly develop a bad habit.

As you practice using your natural rise through the ball, topspin will occur. You may want more. That is okay. But let it happen through good technique.

Ooo alright, thanks for the advice:mrgreen:

[astra]

Hi, I have a problem with my forehand. I use a semi-western grip for my forehand. I cannot hit a flat shot. When ever I play someone dinks the ball i end up hitting into the net or shanking it. I am hitting all topspin and all my balls go short. I play well against someone that hits with a lot of topspin or a hardhitter because I guess I am using all wrist. I also feel comfortable hitting low balls but I cant hit the highbouncing deep balls with comfort. I also have trouble hitting it to the duece side and a lot of my balls go to the ad side (forehand). I am having trouble using my power. Its not like i'm weak its just i use all topspin. Can someone help?
I had similar problem. I played 10 yrs with SW forehand and Eastern backhand. Forehand was slow, forehand volley wrong, stop ball and short ball playing by forehand weak, etc. Then I got angry and changed grip to Eastern forehand and continental backhand. I took long, long time to get used to. 10yrs from the switch, all the above mentioned strokes are much better now and the new grip changed my tactics from a doglike running baseliner to an often attacking allcourter with no evident weakness. What a pleasure from playing this kind of game!

[vin]

Further, I have recently swtiched to the Babalot Pure Control 98 head size


What brought on the switch? Just curious. :)

[TennisAsAlways]

^ Hmmm, BB .... on the Babalot (tweener) bandwagon? LOL j/k :mrgreen:

[Bungalo Bill]

What brought on the switch? Just curious. :)


I dont know, just tried the racquet and it seemed to fit!

[Bungalo Bill]

^ Hmmm, BB .... on the Babalot (tweener) bandwagon? LOL j/k :mrgreen:

It aint no tweener crap, who you fussin with? :p

[Ripper]

PRICELESS; There are some things money can't buy. For everybody else - keep practicing.

Lol... It couldn't have been said any better...

[TennisAsAlways]

It aint no tweener crap, who you fussin with? :p Okay, I'm sorry Babolat Bill *cough cough* .... I mean .... Bungalo Bill. :)

(I'm actually getting a PD as well, the old model, since it will be discontinued soon, now that the new "Roddick" models have been out. Just getting it for "collection" and for use on days when I want to "pretend" that my serve is really really big. :p)

[vin]

Or pretend you are hammering a nail sideways.


Priceless tip BB! I tend to hit a little too much spin, and this simple thought helped me regain the pace I've been missing lately. When thinking of "hammering", I instantly caught myself tilting my shoulders and that reminded me of the easitennis lesson on shoulder tilt (facilitates the "hammering") and one of the power drills they recommend.

[Bungalo Bill]

Okay, I'm sorry Babolat Bill *cough cough* .... I mean .... Bungalo Bill. :)

(I'm actually getting a PD as well, the old model, since it will be discontinued soon, now that the new "Roddick" models have been out. Just getting it for "collection" and for use on days when I want to "pretend" that my serve is really really big. :p)

lol, when you get to be my age and the sorry conditioning I am in you need all the help you can get!

Truthfully, I invested only $50 for two used Pure Controls. They aren't bad racquets. Of course, the Pure Drives I would definetly consider to be tweeners. lol :)

[pham4313]

BB, where do you get 2 Pure control for $50? I am interested in a pair also. Thanks a lot.;)

[Bungalo Bill]

BB, where do you get 2 Pure control for $50? I am interested in a pair also. Thanks a lot.;)

Well a friend of mine gave me a going away gift for helping him through the years. It was a barely used Babalot Pure Control. He wanted to give me the other he had but I insisted on giving him $50.

If I end up switching back (still out to lunch on them) you can buy them from me.

[pham4313]

Well a friend of mine gave me a going away gift for helping him through the years. It was a barely used Babalot Pure Control. He wanted to give me the other he had but I insisted on giving him $50.

If I end up switching back (still out to lunch on them) you can buy them from me.

Thanks Bill, please keep me posted ...my email is pham4313@msn.com

[Tomba]

PRICELESS; There are some things money can't buy. For everybody else - keep practicing.

The best technique for a knee high ball but not a waist high ball.

[Bungalo Bill]

The best technique for a knee high ball but not a waist high ball.

Uhhhhh...what? Practice isn't good for a waist high ball?

[Tomba]

I'm talking about Haas's technique in the video. It is the best technique for knee high balls but not waist high balls, another technique is better.

[vin]

I'm talking about Haas's technique in the video. It is the best technique for knee high balls but not waist high balls, another technique is better.

I think Haas would disagree. :mrgreen:

[Tomba]

Haas has another technique for waist high balls. :)

[Bungalo Bill]

I'm talking about Haas's technique in the video. It is the best technique for knee high balls but not waist high balls, another technique is better.

Really? You're joking right?

Well Einstein if you look closely at the video the ball is in the upper thigh area NOT the knee area when he makes contact. Plus, the camera angle is facing downward further adding to the illusion.

Please describe in detail what a player should do differently to hit a waist high ball. This I can't wait for. Describe preparation, shoulder rotation, use of the non-dominant arm, leg position, head position, etc...

I will give you two clips to look at and tell me what would Haas need to change? Please dont even try and get into the style differences such as Agassi's tilted head, etc...

http://www.uspta.com/html/e-lesson-Open%20stance%20forehand%202.swf

http://www.uspta.com/html/e-lesson-Open%20stance%20forehand%201.swf

[Bungalo Bill]

Haas has another technique for waist high balls. :)

Another technique? lol

[Tomba]

Well Einstein if you look closely at the video the ball is in the upper thigh area NOT the knee area when he makes contact.

I'm saying it is the best technique for knee high balls but not the best technique for waist high balls.

Please describe in detail what a player should do differently to hit a waist high ball.

Look at Federer.:cool:

[Bungalo Bill]

I'm saying it is the best technique for knee high balls but not the best technique for waist high balls.



Look at Federer.:cool:

Look at Federer? I have already looked at Federer.

I am asking for you to explain yourself. First the ball that Haas is hitting is is not knee high. Second what clear technical issue is missing or wrong?

Can you explain it?

[Tomba]

First the ball that Haas is hitting is is not knee high.

I know. The technique he uses on that video can work with knee high balls. I strongly believe you can't get a better technique than that at knee level. However,at waist level, it can get stronger. The path can be more forward with a topspin drive after impact.

[Bungalo Bill]

I know. The technique he uses on that video can work with knee high balls. I strongly believe you can't get a better technique than that at knee level. However,at waist level, it can get stronger. The path can be more forward with a topspin drive after impact.

The technique he is using can also work with waist high balls and higher balls! What are you talking about? LOL

Explain!!! I see, you can't.

[tennis_nerd22]

Hi, I have a problem with my forehand. I use a semi-western grip for my forehand. I cannot hit a flat shot. When ever I play someone dinks the ball i end up hitting into the net or shanking it. I am hitting all topspin and all my balls go short. I play well against someone that hits with a lot of topspin or a hardhitter because I guess I am using all wrist. I also feel comfortable hitting low balls but I cant hit the highbouncing deep balls with comfort. I also have trouble hitting it to the duece side and a lot of my balls go to the ad side (forehand). I am having trouble using my power. Its not like i'm weak its just i use all topspin. Can someone help?

hmm i have this problem when im lazy sometimes. as far as i can remember, it was because i wasnt rotating my shoulders enough. try this: on your takeback, bring your left hand (if your right handed) on the neck of your racket and use it to bring the racket behind you. when you do this, your shoulders should be parallel to the oncoming ball. after you follow through the shot, they will have turned 90-180 degrees, depending on your follow through.

you might be doing this already, but since you said your using mostly your wrists, and not arms, i thought id mention this.

hope it helps

[Tomba]

The technique he is using can also work with waist high balls and higher balls! What are you talking about? LOL



If he uses that technique on high balls, the balls trajectory will be high. Not aggressive enough. Low balls needs more topspin, waist high ball needs medium spin, high balls can be hit directly in a straight line.

[Bungalo Bill]

If he uses that technique on high balls, the balls trajectory will be high. Not aggressive enough. Low balls needs more topspin, waist high ball needs medium spin, high balls can be hit directly in a straight line.

Tomba, in order to save this dumb conversation, we all know that the swing path will change to the ball hieght. We really are not talking about the different forehands and their individual adjustments. We are talking about the forehand in general.

If a player hits a forehand, the use of the legs will be on all forehands. The trunk will be used, the head will should be still....etc...etc.. get it?

You said that "Haas has another technique for waist high balls" but failed to tell us what it was except for a different swing path. But even on that he could easily use the technique in the clip for a waist high ball. It really depends on what he is doing with the ball. I honestly dont think you know what you are saying or trying to say. Are you from a different country than the US?

[Tomba]

The person who started this thread has no clue on how to adjust. There are different names for different paths. There is a topspin lob, flat forehand, windmill like forehand, topspin drive,.....I consider each one a different technique.

[GoWilliamsSisters]

Tomba is a moron. just ignore him

[paulfreda]

Tomba is a moron. just ignore him

Hey, C'mon now, be nice.
BB ... try to be more polite, please.

I agree with Tomba's last post and would like him to elaborate a bit for us.
For instance, what is the difference in his mind from a flat FH and topsin drive and what does he try to do in each case.

[ralphtifftennis]

:D Hey guys,
Great forum but please keep it clean. I am a self taught player who learned by studying the pro's. Let me tell you about technique, they are all different. Roddick seems to throw his body into ground strokes, whereas Federer and Agassi are effortless. Becker's rocking motion on serve, Edberg's mechanical, John Mcenroe's back to net on serve etc, etc.
I had several disputes with a teaching pro at the local courts as he was all about technique. To the point of actually showing people how they should walk it seemed. The only professional advice I ever got was in respect to grip changes as told to my sister. Who passed that on to me. I know how to walk and run but as a beginner who would think you should change your grip to keep that backhand from being a lob, ha.

ON YOUR FOREHAND REMEMBER THIS. PREPARE QUICKLY, KEEP GOOD BALANCE, MAKE CONTACT OUT IN FRONT!

Prepare = turn that shoulder as to point it at the oncoming ball(or point free hand) and get to where the ball will be. If you do this and keep good balance you will insure a solid and comfortable stroke. If you hit it out in front, one/two feet, you will also insure a solid "and" consistant stroke. A higher follow through will impart more spin. Don't worry so much about the take back, instead concentrate on contact and follow-through.

As a bonus: Concentrate on the immediate shoulder turn while adjusting the grip for return of serves. Watch an immediate improvement especially against hard hitting players. This is another reason I like to point the shouder instead of free hand. I use it to make my grip changes and for natural balance. Good luck All and have fun!

[Bungalo Bill]

BB ... try to be more polite, please.

Polite? hahahaha

[ralphtifftennis]

As a follow up to what Tomba is saying and somewhat with the original post.

Those are different shots but the techniques really are not, in respect to topspin. Basically you can hit slice, flat, or topspin. A heavy topspin high over the net could be an offensive lob, or if lower, a loopy ground stroke. The more low to high, speed of raquet, and trajectory over net can greatly differentiate those shots. Though the techniques could be subtle. Also lends to great disquise by not exagerating on your strokes.

First you should figure out what is your strongest and weakest points of contact. Meaning which ball can you hit out on and which gives you the most trouble. This way you will learn what balls to hit out on, and what balls just to spin back. WHEN PLAYING ONE OF THOSE CONSISTANT PLAYERS REMEMBER TO BE CONSISTANT BUT DON'T STRAY TO FAR FROM YOUR GAME. You will get opportunities to hit winners but don't force the issue. Instead concentrate on moving the ball around and wait for your opportunities. Consistancy beats 90% of all players. It is the 10% who are consistant and have power. Look to make approaches in order to pressure them.

As a note: Hit flatter the deeper you are in the court. Hit with more topspin as you come within the baseline and closer to the net. This will help to keep the ball in as the court lenght is shorter. Of course this is all rule of thumb. Do throw in some loopy balls from baseline and use topspin to create angles etc. Use short slices on two handers and people running around their backhands. As they leave the short forehand part of court vulnerable.


Good luck.