Tennis: Have unpredictable forehand

Cones are set in the ad corner. The coach feeds high balls to the forehand side, the player then executes forehand drive in the air to the ad side.

• Coach feeds balls to the deuce side.
• Player uses forehand slice to hit the ball deep.

2 players rally in cross court direction. Players make proper tactical decisions according to the height of the ball they receive. If the ball is really low player hits neutral shot. If the ball is at knee-to-hip level player hits neutral/offensive shot. If the ball is over the hips player tries to be aggressive.

Drill specifications:

Switch after 1 min or specific number of shots

4 players are hitting with each other while others cooperate with partners. Waiting players should focus on perception of the incoming ball so easy exercise where player 1 throws the ball at random height and player B has to say “high”, “medium” or “low” and hit it softly back to the player should be incorporated to accelerate the learning process. Fitness drills are also preferred with the main focus on legs and shoulders (necessary for successful attempts with high and low balls)

Coach stands next to the player. Coach quickly throws the balls. Player fully accelerates and hits all balls as fast as possible.

Max 4-5 repetitions per set

This drill is really demanding from the physical side so number of repetitions should be adjusted to the player fitness preparation. Too many reps will not bring good results because of the tired arm as also can be responsible for player’s injuries of the shoulder. Between the sets with the coach other players can work on specific drills with medicine ball/bands to strengthen the shoulder area.