Having big trouble hitting dead balls

[Fedexpress94]

When I'm hitting new balls(or balls that can actually bounce) I feel like I can beat anyone. I'm crushing the ball and putting it exactly where I want to. However, when I hit with dead balls my form seems to break down and I'm shanking balls, missing my target, and I just can't generate any pace. It feels like day and night for me and it is really frustrating because my high school only provides our team with dead balls so there's nothing I can do. Any tips on how to cure my stroke? I feel like its a small thing that's holding me back...

 

[OldFedIsOld]

Dead balls might be coming slower to you or bouncing lower than usual to you. A fix is to step in and adjust, hitting more out in front and following through more.

 

[sureshs]

Dead balls are also bad for your arm. Stay away from them.

 

[boramiNYC]

Think of your stroke as sequence of movements of joints. From approaching the ball and positioning urself, setting your feet and hip while turning at your shoulders with the arm out (unit turn), final check on the ball and hit the ball. Try thinking this as a sequence and learn to be able to slow down especially doing the unit turn. This will help with timing. When using normal balls again you'll have to adjust and do all the sequence a little faster.

 

[chrisberchris]

Bend those knees, bend those knees!

 

[saltair]

Practicing with dead balls can be frustrating.

Use it as an opportunity to fine tune your foot work and timing. You will be even more effective in match play with fresh balls.

 

[skiracer55]

Don't use dead balls...see that was easy...

 

[Bartelby]

Dead balls make you want a more powerful racquet.