Paul Jubb's step-by-step guide to tennis shots

Forehand

STAND SIDE ON.

Move to the ball and adopt a closed stance (side-on). Plant feet shoulder width apart and stand firm as you make your shot.

TURN HIPS AND SHOULDERS.

Pivot from your hips and draw the racket back while twisting your shoulders.

LIFT THE BALL OVER THE NET.

Swing your racket from a low to high position, connecting with the ball at waist height. End your swing with the racket high over your opposite shoulder.

Backhand

USE TWO HANDS.

Backhand is an essential skill, but many players struggle to nail the technique. Use two hands to maintain power and control.

TWIST YOUR SHOULDERS.

Move to the ball and adopt a closed (side-on) stance. Twist your body and bring the racket back so it points to the back fence.

POWER THROUGH.

Relax your arms and use the energy stored in your body to power your shot. Transfer your weight from your back foot to your front foot as you swing your racket from a low to high position.

Serve

TAKE YOUR TIME.

The serve is the one shot in tennis where you are in total control. Point your front foot and your racket towards your target and set your back foot parallel to the baseline.

HAND WORK.

Hold the ball and support your racket with your opposite hand. Briefly raise both hands and drop them together. As you raise back up separate your hands and turn your body side-on to the court. Bring your arms up into a ‘tick’ position. As you do this transfer weight from your front to your back foot.

TOSS AND STRIKE.

Release the ball into the air above and slightly in front of you as your racket begins its ascent. Transfer your weight back to your front foot and bring the racket down in an arc on top on the ball. The higher the point of contact, the more power you will generate.

Volley

GET READY.

A volley is one of the most technically challenging tennis shots. It requires very quick reactions. Move up the court and hold the racket head slightly higher than usual in front of your body.

REACT.

You’ll have less time to react to your opponent’s shot this close to the net. Move your head and hands towards the ball. Your body moves first, your feet second.

PUNCH THE BALL.

There’s no time to swing your racket. The shot is short and takes place in front of your body. Use your wrist and forearm to snap the racket down in a sharp action. Follow through in the direction you want to send the ball.

Last updated Wednesday 26 June 2019

First published on Thursday 20 June 2019