Player stands next to the singles line. Coach feeds ball behind the doubles alley. Player moves to the ball, crosses doubles line with right leg and hits forehand in open stance. Player recovers back and repeats this pattern again while moving forward after each shot.
In modern tennis it is impossible to play successfully using only one stance. Players have to be equipped with different stances to be able to respond effectively to different kinds of balls. Coach should show examples where players need an open stance and make them aware that without this technical improvement, they can't compete well against good opponents. That's why it is crucial to create drills that will allow players to easily improve and reach new levels.
In this drill, Player works on open stance. After using previous drills based mostly on upper body and balance, now Player must incorporate their lower body and work on a complete forehand stroke with an open stance. This drill helps players to self-evaluate because crossing the line with their right leg automatically puts Player into the correct open stance. Every time Player doesn't do that, they know and can improve this area with the next attempt. Coach should pay attention to lower and upper body turns to make sure that player gets the most of this stance.
On-court coaching is now fully legal, technology continues to advance, and the ATP calendar evolves. Here's what tennis coaches need to know for 2026.
Tennis demands a unique combination of endurance, power, agility, and flexibility. Physical preparation determines how long careers last and how players perform when it matters most.
Ecological dynamics is transforming tennis coaching. This constraints-led approach develops adaptable, creative players who can solve problems in competition, not just execute drilled patterns.
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