If you’re looking to improve your tennis game and take it to the next level, mastering the ball height is essential. Keeping the ball low when playing tennis can help you maintain control of the court and score more points. It also helps prevent your opponents from gaining an advantage in a match.
In this article, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to keep the ball low when playing tennis. We will discuss techniques such as using spin, body positioning, and footwork that can help with keeping your shots low while still being effective during a match. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to master controlling the height of your shots quickly and easily!
How to Keep the Ball Low Quick Guide
Learning how to keep the ball low when playing tennis is an important skill to have. Here are the main steps to help you achieve this goal; for more details continue reading below.
- Prepare
- Hit the ball
- Finish
- Direction
How to Keep the Ball Low Steps
By following these steps, you should be able to stop asking how to keep the ball low and actually do it when playing tennis. With enough practice, this skill will become second nature!
Step 1: Prepare
To hit harder shots in tennis, you can use flat strokes that pass low over the net. However, these shots are harder to control and may result in hitting the net or going out of bounds.
To prepare for this type of shot, use quick short steps to reach the ball and swing your arm with full extension. It’s also important to keep your backswing short to increase speed and power.
Step 2: Hit the ball
To generate more power in your strokes, focus on weight transfer. This involves bending your knees, stepping forward as you hit, and using a relaxed arm to drive the ball while rotating your hips and shoulders.
Hitting a hard, low shot involves hitting the ball at its center point with a perpendicular racket face and following through accordingly. Remember to keep your initial contact point low.
Step 3: Finish
To execute a proper stroke, make sure your arm moves forward and your wrist finishes by going up. If you aim downward, the ball may not clear the net unless you’re returning a high bounce. On the other hand, aiming upwards will result in a higher ball trajectory.
Remember, these principles apply to both forehand and backhand shots. Skilled players can also target specific areas of the court. If you want to finish a point, flatter shots are more effective when moving forward into the court.
Step 4: Direction
To hit the ball straight ahead with your forehand or backhand, regardless of whether it’s down the middle of the court or down the line, make sure to strike the ball in the center if you’re using your right hand.
If you’re using your forehand and want to drive the ball crosscourt, aim for the 3 o’clock position. If you’re using your backhand and want to drive the ball crosscourt, aim for the 9 o’clock position.
Left-handed players should aim for the 3 o’clock position for a crosscourt backhand and the 9 o’clock position for a crosscourt forehand.
Recommended Tools To Keep the Ball Low
Head Graphene Laser Oversize Pre-Strung Tennis Racquet
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The HEAD Graphene Laser Oversize Pre-Strung Tennis Racquet is a high-performance sporting equipment built to revolutionize your playing experience.
This racquet features a large 110 square-inch head size which increases ball control and power, while the Velocity multifilament string creates an arm-friendly feel with low vibration and shock on off-center hits.
The uniquely strong Graphene material integrated into the throat adds stability when hitting the ball. At 9.4 oz, this pre-strung racket has a 685 mm length and 24/26/22 mm beam dimensions making it ideal for players who want to keep their balls low during play.
Rebound Wall for Tennis & Racquet Sports Ball Backboard
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This Jumbo Tennis Rebound Net is the perfect practice tool to help you hone your skills.
The powder-coated steel frame is 6.7ft x 6ft and features netting that will return the ball with accuracy, allowing players of all ages and abilities to improve their groundstrokes, volleys, and more.
With its versatile design, it can be used in tennis clubs or in any garden for fun family activities.
This rebounder helps develop forehand and backhand shots, volleys, cutting exercises; fixed swing movements, pace exercises as well as physical fitness! Perfect for developing playstyles that keep the ball low.
Common Questions About How to Keep the Ball Low
What is the right way to keep the ball low?
To keep the ball low, you should make contact with it early, out in front of your front foot. Keep your swing level and shorten your backswing and follow through. However, ensure that your swing is still long enough to repeat the shot and is not short and quick.
When should you keep the ball low?
Due to the increasing reliance on power in tennis, players often find themselves stuck at or behind the baseline. To take advantage of opponents’ defensive positions, hitting low and short balls in front of them can be very effective.
Where should your focus be when learning how to keep the ball low?
Make sure to concentrate on the point where the racquet hits the ball and guide the racquet to follow the desired path.
When finishing the stroke, lift the racquet slightly higher than the net’s top since the objective is to hit the ball at least two feet above the net’s height. It’s important to note that hitting the top of the net is not necessary for a successful shot.
Is knowing how to keep the ball low effective in doubles?
The low, solid shot is not only effective in doubles but also a great option to play after hitting deep, powerful shots to set up the point.
Tips when learning how to keep the ball low:
- Make sure you are using a racket that is properly sized and weighted for your style of play. A heavier racket will help you hit the ball with more power, while a lighter one will give you more control and accuracy.
- Utilize a short follow-through when hitting the ball. This will help keep the trajectory of the shot lower, as it won’t take as long to reach the court.
- Focus on keeping your racket head below the level of your waist while making contact with the ball. This will help you “slice†the ball, keeping it on a low trajectory over the net.
- Use your wrist to generate spin on the ball when hitting. This will create a dipping effect, helping you keep the ball lower in its flight path and allowing for more control of your shots.
- Practice with a backboard to help work on your accuracy and control. This will help you find the right balance of power and finesse needed to keep the ball low.
Video Guidelines For Hitting Low Contact Tennis Forehands And Backhands
Are you looking to improve your tennis game? In this video, you’ll discover how to keep the ball low and increase your chances of winning. Learn the tips and techniques for keeping the ball low on every shot and beating your opponents!
Final Thoughts
Keeping the ball low is a critical skill for tennis players to master. By adjusting your grip, stance, and swing angle you can ensure that each shot has enough power while still keeping it below the net.
Additionally, practicing drills like hitting against an angled wall will help you develop muscle memory and keep your shots consistent.
With some dedication and practice, anyone can learn how to keep the ball low in tennis! So next time you’re on the court make sure to focus on keeping the ball low – with these tips in hand, success won’t be far away!
