Tennis: Hitting on the Rise

Players are working in groups of three.

Player 1 is the 'working' player and players 2 and 3 are feeding the ball.

Player 1 must hit only forehands and must hit one shot inside out to player 3 and one shot inside in to player 2.

Player 2 hits forehands line, player 3 hits backhands cross.

Zones are set in both corners. The coach feeds balls to the ad side, and the player runs around and hits forehand inside out. If the player misses the zone, he has to continue to play in this direction. If the player hits the zone, coach says "switch" and the player then hits the next ball with forehand inside in.

Player stays on the baseline. Cones are set behind the player. Coach feeds deep higher balls. Player takes the ball on the rise and hits aggressively. Cones prevents the player from moving back.

Drill specifications:

6-8 repetitions per set

Other players can watch the playing person to learn from his good and bad attempts or they can perform specific physical activities that will have a positive influence on “hitting on the rise” aspect. That’s why these drills should be focused on shoulders’ strength and power because of physical demands of this stroke.

Player stands facing the wall and hits forehand volleys against the wall. After each hit, the player moves forward and closer to the wall. Once at the wall, the player continues to hit the ball against the wall but now moves back to their starting position. The aim is for the ball to not touch the floor.