Do you find yourself struggling at the net when playing tennis? If so, then learning how to improve your volley shots is key to taking your game up a notch. Volley shots are an important part of any match as they can be used to put pressure on your opponent and gain control of the court.
Learning how to improve volleys takes time and repetition, but with these seven tips, you’ll be able to master them in no time! Become a pro at volleying by learning how to improve volleys and win more points today!
How to Improve Volleys Quick Guide
Improving your volleys is a skill that takes time and practice to master. Here are some tips on how to improve volleys in tennis:
- Footwork
- Grip
- Rotation
- Follow-through
- Don’t let the ball drop
- Move your racquet through the ball’s path
- Practice Regularly
How to Improve Volleys Tips
By following these tips and practicing regularly you can become more comfortable at the net and improve your volleys. Remember that repetition is key when it comes to mastering any skill in tennis, so keep practicing and soon you’ll be confidently volleying your way to victory.
Tip 1: Footwork
Proper footwork is essential when it comes to hitting an effective volley. You should practice the correct stance and foot placement, so you can move quickly and remain balanced and in control.
Tip 2: Grip
Make sure your grip on the racquet is comfortable and that you’re able to move it quickly into position when volleying, while still being able to control the shot angle.
Tip 3: Rotation
As you move forward, rotate your body as you hit the volley so your weight is evenly distributed and you have maximum power.
Tip 4: Follow-through
As with any shot in tennis, it’s important to follow through on the volley to ensure accuracy and control. Make sure you complete your swing after making contact with the ball.
Tip 5: Don’t let the ball drop
If you stand close to the net, volleys become easier as you can hit the ball down into the court or toward your opponent’s feet without much effort.
Backing up from the net can cause the ball to drop to your feet, making the volley more difficult. It is not recommended to wait for the ball to drop too low before hitting it. Instead, try moving forward and hit the ball at its highest point.
Tip 6: Move your racquet through the ball’s path
If your volleys are popping up or floating too much, it could be because you are not hitting through the ball and are instead hitting under it with your racquet. To fix this, make sure that your racquet is moving toward the direction where you want to hit the ball and not downwards.
To improve, adjust the tilt of your strings towards the desired direction of the ball instead of upwards.
To improve your volleys, try starting with your racquet in a lower position before hitting. Although it may feel strange at first due to your previous incorrect technique, this new upward swing path can result in better, more precise volleys until it becomes natural to you.
Tip 7: Practice regularly
To really hone your volleying skills, practice regularly and in different situations. You should practice volleying from the baseline to the net, as well as from mid-court to the net.
Recommended Tools to Improve Volleys
Babolat Pure Strike VS Tennis Racquet
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Common Questions About How to Improve Volleys
What is a tennis volley shot?
To hit a strong volley in tennis, you need to return the ball before it bounces on your side of the court. Although it can be difficult, following the tips we’ve outlined in this guide can help you learn how to improve volleys.
What grip should you use for a volley shot?
Most tennis players prefer using the continental forehand grip while hitting a volley. This grip provides good control to achieve a powerful shot.
What are the types of volleys?
Forehand and backhand are the two most common types of volleys. They are quick shots played near the net and can feel uncomfortable at first, especially if you’ve focused mainly on groundstrokes and serves during practice.
With practice, you’ll gradually improve your technique, enabling you to hit these shots with control and precision, converting them into winning shots.
If you have the right technique, half volleys can be highly effective despite their slightly more complex nature. Drop volleys, on the other hand, can also be useful, but are a bit trickier to pull off and require some luck.
How to hit a forehand volley?
- To hit a forehand volley, remember to punch the ball with your racket instead of taking full swing.
- Stand with your knees slightly bent and both feet pointing towards the net. Also, keep your racket up and ready to hit.
- After your opponent hits the ball, perform a split step and move your racket slightly backward. This will allow you to hit the ball and send it over the net.
- Resume your ready position immediately after.
How to hit a backhand volley?
- Hitting a backhand volley is almost the same as hitting a forehand volley, except you use your backhand to hit the ball and roll it over the net after making contact.
- To execute the shot, maintain the continental grip and keep your arm straight while pointing it down the line.
- Rotate your body clockwise before pointing your elbow out parallel to the ground. From there, push the ball forward.
What is the best technique for hitting volleys?
The best way for most people to learn how to hit a volleyball is to practice alone without the pressure of an opponent.
Where do you stand when volleying in tennis?
The ideal position to hit a volley is approximately two-thirds towards the net, within the service box. This will enable you to hit shots near the net and still have the option to fall back for a lob if required, though it may vary based on the circumstance.
What are the best drills when learning how to improve volleys?
- Volley on a wall: To practice volleys on a wall, begin with short touches to perfect your technique. Then, progress to hitting harder volleys deeper in the court. Practicing 10 forehand volleys and 10 backhand volleys is recommended. Advanced players can try doing 20, 50, or 100 in a row. Using a tennis court wall or a brick wall is a simple and solo alternative.
- Touch Volleys with Your Doubles Partner: Practice touch volleys with your doubles partner by starting short and standing close to the net. To improve your feel and timing, start with simple and easy volleys. Gradually take a step back and repeat the process until you can do it while standing in the service line.
- One Up One Back: One player starts at the service line and feeds the ball to the other player at the baseline. Both players should be positioned down the line from each other. The player at the baseline has to hit the ball on the first shot within the singles court without using lobs. After that, the entire half-court, including the doubles alley, is open, and lobs are allowed. The player at the net has to hit their first volley from the service line or within one step of it. The game is played to 11 points, and then the players switch positions.
Video Learn To LOVE The Net in Tennis – Master Your Volleys in 2 Steps
Are you struggling to hit the perfect volley? In this video, you’ll learn how to improve your volleys and get them up to a competitive level. From footwork drills, hand position, and court positioning – learn the fundamentals that will help you become a better player.
Final Thoughts
When learning how to improve volleys, keep in mind it takes a lot of repetition and practice, but it is worth the effort. With consistent training and focus on technique, you can master this essential tennis shot. Remember to keep your body relaxed while maintaining balance at all times for maximum power.
By using these tips as well as visualizing success before each volley attempt, you will soon be able to confidently hit those winning shots! If you need help with improving your volleys or any other part of your game, consider working with a professional coach who can provide expert advice tailored specifically for you. Good luck in mastering the art of the volley!
