When it comes to tennis, many people think of the powerful forehand and backhand shots, the acrobatic volleys, and the thrilling rallies. But there is also a less glamorous, yet still essential, part of the game: the serve. The serve is the most important stroke in tennis and it is the only one that you have full control over. The serve is where the game begins, and it can set the tone for the entire match. This is why it is important to have a great serve, and in order to do that, you need to be a great pusher.
What is Pushing in Tennis?
Pushing in tennis is the act of using a consistent, low-risk stroke to get the ball over the net. It is a shot that is made without much spin, and it is used mainly to move the ball into the opponent’s court. Pushing is often used by players who are trying to conserve energy or who are looking to gain control of the point.
Benefits of Being a Pusher
There are several benefits to being a pusher in tennis. First, it allows the player to conserve energy. Pushing is not a very physical stroke, so it does not require a lot of strength or endurance. This can be beneficial when playing a long match or playing multiple matches in a row.
Second, it helps the player gain control of the point. Pushing is not designed to win the point; instead, it is designed to put the ball in a position where the player can win the point with a more powerful shot. This is important because it allows the player to build momentum and gain an advantage over the opponent.
Third, it helps the player to stay consistent. Pushing is a low-risk shot that is easy to execute, so it helps the player stay consistent and avoid unforced errors. This is especially important in a close match where every point can make a difference.
Drawbacks of Being a Pusher
Although there are several benefits to being a pusher in tennis, there are also some drawbacks. First, it can be difficult to win the point with a push. Pushing is not designed to win the point, so if the opponent is ready for the push, then it will be difficult for the player to win the point.
Second, it can be difficult to surprise the opponent with a push. Pushing is a low-risk shot, so the opponent usually knows what to expect when the player pushes. This makes it difficult for the player to catch the opponent off-guard.
Finally, it can be difficult to hit powerful shots when pushing. Pushing is designed to be a low-risk shot, so it does not generate much power. This can be a problem if the player needs to hit a powerful shot to win the point.
The Art of Pushing
Despite the drawbacks, there is an art to pushing in tennis. Here are some tips for becoming a great pusher:
1. Know When to Push
The key to pushing is knowing when to use it. Pushing should be used when the player needs to gain control of the point and when they want to conserve energy. It should not be used when the player needs to hit a powerful shot to win the point.
2. Be Patient
Pushing requires patience. The player should not rush their shot and should take their time to make sure they hit a good shot. This will help the player stay consistent and avoid unforced errors.
3. Focus on Placement
Pushing is not about power, it’s about placement. The player should focus on hitting the ball in the right spot, rather than trying to hit it hard. This will help the player keep the ball in play and give themselves a chance to win the point.
4. Use Variety
Pushing can be effective, but it can also be predictable. To keep the opponent guessing, the player should mix up their shots and use a variety of pushing strokes. This will make it difficult for the opponent to anticipate the shot and will give the player an advantage.
Conclusion
Pushing in tennis is an essential part of the game and it can be a great way to gain control of the point and conserve energy. However, it is important to remember that pushing is not designed to win the point and it can be difficult to hit powerful shots when pushing. To become a great pusher, the player should know when to push, be patient, focus on placement, and use variety. If a player can master the art of pushing, then they will be well on their way to becoming a great tennis player.
In conclusion, being a pusher in tennis can be a great way to gain control of the point, conserve energy, and stay consistent. However, it is important to remember that pushing is not designed to win the point and it can be difficult to hit powerful shots when pushing. With the right technique and a lot of practice, any player can become a great pusher.