Why do I miss overheads when standing sideways?

[rob61]

Instructors always told me to stand sideways (classic trophy pose) when hitting overheads. Yet time and again when I do this I completely miss the ball. However, if I stand at a 45 degree angle from the net (as I would when serving) I make the shot. Its just the 90 degree angle that somehow messes me up and I swing and completely miss the ball.

Should I continue to try to stand at 90 degrees (sideways) and work on that, or just keep hitting with a 45 degree stance where I usually connect with the ball?

What is it that makes a 90 degree stance so difficult for me?

[linli101]

Standing sideway doesn't mean standing 90 degrees to the trajectory of incoming ball. If you are right-handed, it means you should stand to the position that the ball will fall to your right hand side striking zone instead of falling directly to the top of your head.

[Anonymous]

Keep doing 45 degrees it works

[Cigo]

It's rather common to forget to bend ones knees before an overhead, even a slight(comfortable) knee bend makes it a great deal easier.

[ucd_ace]

Whenever you're completely missing the ball, it's not the stance's fault. Just watch the ball and swing your racquet at it. Eventually you'll start being able to hit the ball.

[Nas Eclipse]

point to the ball with your left hand.