Tennis’s two basic strokes: grips, the phases of a stroke and the difference between one- and two-handed backhands.
Rallies in tennis are mostly played with two strokes: the forehand and the backhand. For a right-handed player, a ball coming to the right side is met with a forehand and a ball coming to the left with a backhand.
Forehand
Grip
- Eastern forehand: You hold the racket as if “shaking hands” with it. Natural for flat shots and suitable for beginners.
- Semi-western: Your hand turns slightly further under the handle. It makes it easier to put topspin on the ball and is one of the most common grips today.
Phases of the stroke
- Preparation: As the ball comes, turn your shoulders sideways and take the racket back early.
- Footwork: Step so that you leave a comfortable distance between you and the ball.
- Contact: Meet the ball in front of your body, close to waist height.
- Follow-through: After contact, the racket carries on towards the opposite shoulder.
Backhand
Two-handed backhand
The racket is held with both hands. Because it’s more stable, it’s common among beginners and children, and it gives more power on high balls.
One-handed backhand
The racket is held with one hand. It gives more reach and makes the slice easier, but it demands timing and shoulder strength.
| Two-handed | One-handed | |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | High | Medium |
| Reach | Shorter | Wider |
| Learning | Usually easier | Can take longer |
The best way to find out which suits you is to try both with your coach.
Tips for beginners
- Watch the ball all the way onto the strings.
- Hold the racket with control rather than tightly; squeezing too hard tires your arm.
- Hit with your body’s rotation, not just your arm.
- After each shot, return to the centre and get into the ready position.