The Practice Court: A Haven for Improvement
The practice court is a sanctuary for tennis players, a place where they can hone their skills, refine their techniques, and experiment with new strategies. It’s not just a necessary evil between matches; it’s where the real work is done.
Effective Practice Session
Here’s a comprehensive 1.5-hour practice session that can help you elevate your game:
Warm-up (0:00-0:10)
* Begin with light cardio and stretching to prepare your body.
* Start with mini-tennis to build confidence and gradually transition to full strokes.
* Practice volleys and overheads at the net.
Confidence Building (0:10-0:20)
* Identify an area of your game that needs improvement.
* Focus on isolating that stroke and practicing it in a low-pressure environment.
* Dedicate at least five minutes to each player’s specific issue.
Crosscourts (0:20-0:30)
* Hit crosscourt shots with your partner, focusing on control and depth.
* Gradually increase pace and spin.
* Emphasize footwork and recovery towards the center of the court.
Down the Lines (0:30-0:40)
* Practice hitting shots down the line, which are crucial for opening up the court.
* Concentrate on length and topspin rather than power.
* Turn it into a game to keep it engaging.
Workshopping a Skill (0:50-1:00)
* Refine a specific stroke or tactic, such as a one-handed slice or volleys.
* Play out points with one player feeding balls and the other hitting passing shots.
Serves and Returns (1:00-1:10)
* Practice serving with different spins and placements.
* Experiment with return positions and tactics.
* Follow serves to net to improve volleying skills.
Showtime (1:10-1:30)
* Apply everything you’ve practiced in competitive play.
* Play games, tiebreakers, or ping pong scoring.
* Take chances with new shots and strategies, but avoid gifting points.
