Hofertennis's Articles – January 2008 Archive (7)

Andre Agassi popularized a new and aggressive way to play tennis. He would stand close to the baseline and hit most balls as they rose from the bounce. We now call this “hitting on the rise”. The traditional method to hit groundstrokes was to let the ball bounce, reach it’s peak then strike the ball as it descended towards the ground. But Agassi’s incredible timing allowed…

To hit a good drop shot one needs a good slice or underspin shot. A drop shot is really nothing more than an underspin shot that lands short or close to the net.

The continental grip is the best for both the forehand and backhand drop shots because it naturally tilts the strings open to lift the ball up. This allows the player to put…

Many tennis players have a misconception of achieving topspin on groundstrokes. I will try to clear the air in simple terms.

Topspin or overspin is when the ball is spinning over itself in the direction moving forward. Topspin can be achieved…

The key to hitting great volleys is all in the hands. The hands hold the racquet in a position to make the volley work.

The best grip for volleys is the Continental grip. This grip allows for the forehand and backhand volleys and overheads to be hit with the same grip. Not having to change the grip is critical for quick…

Recently I received an email asking me how does one handle high balls. High bouncing balls are relative. It is not how high the ball is bouncing but where it bounces is more appropriate. Balls landing near the baseline create a situation where the player will have to do one of three things.…

The amount of time a player is actually playing points in a tennis match is less than 35%. That leaves more than 65% of your time in a tennis match doing something else. It’s important for players to use this amount of time wisely.

Rest and recovery…