Introduction to Tennis Groundstrokes
Tennis groundstrokes are strokes played after the serve and before the net shots. These strokes are used to return the opponent’s serve and dictate the pace and direction of the point. There are four basic groundstrokes in tennis: the forehand, backhand, half-volley, and slice. Each stroke has its own distinct characteristics and requires different skills.
Forehand
The forehand is a powerful, full-bodied stroke. It is played with the player’s dominant hand on the back of the racket and is used to return shots hit in the front court. The forehand is typically the most aggressive groundstroke and is used to hit winners and put pressure on the opponent.
Backhand
The backhand is a two-handed stroke played with the non-dominant hand on the back of the racket and the dominant hand on the upper part of the racket handle. The backhand is typically used to return shots hit to the player’s backhand side and can be used to hit winners as well.
Half-Volley
The half-volley is a stroke played when the ball is very close to the ground. It is played with the non-dominant hand on the back of the racket and the dominant hand on the upper part of the racket handle. The half-volley is an important stroke as it can be used to surprise the opponent and can be used to hit winners.
Slice
The slice is a type of groundstroke that is used to hit low, looping shots. It is played with the dominant hand on the upper part of the racket handle and the non-dominant hand on the back of the racket. The slice is typically used to keep the ball away from the opponent and to create angles.
Which Basic Groundstroke Is Most Important?
With so many different groundstrokes to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which one is the most important. There is no definite answer to this question as it depends on the player’s individual style of play. However, there are some basic groundstrokes that are essential for any player to master.
Forehand
The forehand is arguably the most important groundstroke as it is typically the most powerful and versatile. A strong forehand can be used to hit winners and put pressure on the opponent. It is also important for dictating the direction and pace of the point.
Backhand
The backhand is also an important groundstroke as it is used to return shots hit to the player’s backhand side. It is important to have a reliable backhand as it can be used to keep the ball in play and to hit winners.
Half-Volley
The half-volley is an important stroke as it can be used to surprise the opponent and to hit winners. It is important to be able to hit a half-volley as it can be used to take the ball early and to keep the opponent off balance.
Slice
The slice is an important stroke as it can be used to keep the ball away from the opponent and to create angles. It is important to be able to hit a slice as it can be used to mix up the pace and to move the opponent around the court.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are four basic groundstrokes in tennis: the forehand, backhand, half-volley, and slice. Each of these strokes has its own distinct characteristics and requires different skills. Ultimately, it is up to the individual player to decide which groundstroke is the most important. However, the forehand, backhand, half-volley, and slice are all essential groundstrokes that every player should master.
- Forehand – powerful, full-bodied stroke used to hit winners and dictate the pace and direction of the point
- Backhand – two-handed stroke used to return shots hit to the player’s backhand side
- Half-Volley – stroke used to surprise the opponent and to hit winners
- Slice – used to hit low, looping shots and to keep the ball away from the opponent