What are the two ground strokes in tennis?
Tennis is a complex sport that requires skill, strategy, and athleticism. It is a game of both power and finesse and requires players to be able to execute a variety of shots, including groundstrokes. Groundstrokes are the basic shots in tennis, and there are two types: the forehand and the backhand. In this article, we will discuss what the two groundstrokes in tennis are, how they differ, and how they are used in a match.
What is a groundstroke?
A groundstroke is a shot that is played from the ground and is intended to be hit with a flat face of the racket. Groundstrokes are the basic shots in tennis and are usually the first shots that a player learns. They are the foundation of any good tennis game and are essential for success in the sport.
The Forehand
The forehand is a groundstroke that is hit with the dominant hand (right hand for right-handed players, left hand for left-handed players). The player stands side-on to the net and extends the dominant arm, with the racket held in the palm of the hand. The racket is then swung forward and across the body, with the wrist rotating to generate power and spin. The forehand is considered to be a powerful stroke and is usually used to finish off a point.
The Backhand
The backhand is a groundstroke that is hit with the non-dominant hand (left hand for right-handed players, right hand for left-handed players). The player stands side-on to the net and extends the non-dominant arm, with the racket held in the palm of the hand. The racket is then swung across the body, with the wrist rotating to generate power and spin. The backhand is considered to be a more controlled stroke and is usually used to set up a point.
Differences between Forehand and Backhand
Though both the forehand and backhand are groundstrokes, they are different in several important ways. The main difference between the two strokes is that the forehand is traditionally hit with the dominant hand, while the backhand is traditionally hit with the non-dominant hand. This makes the forehand a more powerful stroke, while the backhand is considered to be more controlled. Additionally, the forehand is usually used to finish off a point, while the backhand is usually used to set up a point.
How to Improve Your Groundstrokes
Improving your groundstrokes is essential for success in tennis. Here are some tips to help you improve your groundstrokes:
- Focus on technique: The most important thing is to focus on proper technique. Make sure to use the correct grip and footwork for each stroke.
- Practice drills: Practice drills such as hitting against a wall or practicing with a partner can help you hone your skills.
- Hit with purpose: Make sure to hit with a purpose and focus on where you want the ball to go.
- Vary your shots: Try to mix up your shots by adding spin and varying the pace. This will help keep your opponents guessing.
How Groundstrokes are Used in a Match
Groundstrokes are essential for success in a match. The forehand is usually used to finish off a point, while the backhand is usually used to set up a point. Additionally, both strokes can be used to defend against an opponent’s attack.
For example, a player may use a backhand slice to keep the ball low and make it difficult for their opponent to attack. Or, a player may use a forehand topspin to hit the ball with more power and keep their opponent from attacking.
Common Mistakes
When learning how to hit groundstrokes, it is important to avoid common mistakes. Here are some of the most common mistakes that players make when hitting groundstrokes:
- Incorrect grip: Make sure to use the correct grip for each stroke. This will help ensure that you hit the ball correctly.
- Incorrect footwork: Make sure to use the correct footwork for each stroke. This will help you generate power and spin.
- Lack of focus: Make sure to focus on where you want the ball to go. This will help you hit the ball with more accuracy.
- Hitting the ball too hard: Try to vary your shots and hit with more control. This will help you keep your opponent guessing and give you more time to set up the next shot.
Conclusion
The forehand and backhand are the two basic groundstrokes in tennis. They are essential for success in the sport and are usually the first shots that a player learns. The forehand is a powerful stroke that is usually used to finish off a point, while the backhand is a more controlled stroke that is usually used to set up a point. Improving your groundstrokes is essential for success in tennis, so make sure to focus on proper technique, practice drills, and hit with a purpose.
References
1. Bollinger, L. (2020, April 6). Tennis Forehand and Backhand: How to Hit Both. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/tennis-forehand-and-backhand-how-to-hit-both-3136232
2. USTA. (n.d.). Groundstrokes. Retrieved from https://www.usta.com/en/home/play/tennis/learn-the-game/beginner-guide/groundstrokes.html
3. Tennis 101. (2017, February 17). Tennis Groundstrokes: How to Improve Your Forehand and Backhand. Retrieved from https://www.tennis101.net/tennis-groundstrokes/
4. Tennis Tips. (2020, February 17). How to Hit a Forehand and Backhand in Tennis. Retrieved from https://www.tennistips.org/how-to-hit-a-forehand-and-backhand-in-tennis/