Players are working in groups of 3, with players 2 and 3 feeding and player 1 'working'.
Player 1 is hitting one forehand cross and one forehand inside out to player 3.
Player 2 is hitting one forehand down the line aiming for the red cone.
Player 3 is hitting one backhand line into the target zone.
The drill continues in this way with players rallying co-operatively for a certain length of time, 3 minutes for example, before rotating.
As this shot tends to leave players exposed it needs to be played aggressively, with speed and precision.
Focus in particular on fast-feet, getting your player into position for the shot they are about to play.
Coaching Tips
This drill is physically demanding for player 1 as the movement needs to be very fast and sharp in order to move from the forehand cross-court to getting around the inside out ball with space and balance.
Player 2's feeding needs to be especially accurate at the red cone to ensure player 1 has enough time to get there to hit a forehand. Player 2 should not be looking to hit the forehand close to the tramline for this reason.
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.
The one-handed backhand is becoming rare, but when executed well, it remains one of tennis's most elegant and effective shots. Is it a dying art or a tactical advantage?