First of all, let me start out by providing a brief background: I am a leftie and can serve slice and kickers on both sides of the court. I use continental and eastern backhand respectively. In both cases, the racquet makes a sideways contact with the ball.
Now, I am trying to develop a good flat serve. I understand the racquet face should be flat at point of contact. That's where I am having issues. I can't seem to develop a serve motion/grip combination that makes the face flat, while still getting power and consistency. I can emulate canon ball motion, by hitting the back of the ball with a straight arm, but rarely the ball falls in, it is either long or hits the net.
My other serves are fairly consistent. In such cases, my swing is balanced, smooth and hence repeatable. I am just not able to get that level of comfort with flat serve.
How can I improve?
Now, I am trying to develop a good flat serve. I understand the racquet face should be flat at point of contact. That's where I am having issues. I can't seem to develop a serve motion/grip combination that makes the face flat, while still getting power and consistency. I can emulate canon ball motion, by hitting the back of the ball with a straight arm, but rarely the ball falls in, it is either long or hits the net.
My other serves are fairly consistent. In such cases, my swing is balanced, smooth and hence repeatable. I am just not able to get that level of comfort with flat serve.
How can I improve?