1. Why the Forehand Is the Foundation of Your Game 💪
In tennis, the forehand is often your most powerful and reliable shot. It’s the stroke that can dominate rallies, dictate pace, and force opponents into defensive positions. For beginners, mastering a solid forehand builds confidence and sets the stage for more advanced techniques.
2. Understanding the Basics 🧠
Before hitting your first forehand, you need to get familiar with:
- Grip – The Eastern grip is best for beginners: place the base knuckle of your index finger on the third bevel of the racket handle. This grip offers a great balance between power and control.
- Stance – Use an open stance for faster rallies or a neutral stance for better stability when you have more time to set up.
- Contact Point – Aim to meet the ball slightly in front of your body, around waist height.
3. Step-by-Step Guide 🔍
Step 1: Ready Position
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
- Racket in front of your body.
- Knees slightly bent and eyes on the ball.
Step 2: Unit Turn
- Rotate shoulders and hips as you prepare.
- Non-dominant hand helps guide the racket back.
Step 3: Swing Path
- Start low and finish high (the classic “low-to-high” motion).
- Accelerate through the ball — power comes from rotation, not just the arm.
Step 4: Contact
- Make contact slightly in front of you.
- Keep your wrist firm — avoid flipping.
Step 5: Follow-Through
- Finish the swing over your opposite shoulder.
- Maintain balance and get ready for the next shot.
4. Pro Tips for Control & Consistency 🎯
- Footwork First – Good positioning makes the forehand easier and more accurate.
- Relax Your Grip – A tight grip reduces fluidity; stay loose for better racket head speed.
- Watch the Ball – Focus until after contact, not just before.
- Drill Regularly – Hit 50–100 forehands per session to build muscle memory.
- Video Your Practice – Reviewing your form reveals mistakes you might not feel in the moment.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid 🚫
- Swinging only with the arm (use your whole body for power).
- Hitting the ball too late (contact point too far back).
- Over-rotating and losing balance.
- Ignoring follow-through.
6. Practice Drill You Can Try Today 🏋️
The Cone Target Drill:
- Place two cones or markers near the baseline on the opposite side.
- Hit forehands aiming between them.
- Focus on depth and accuracy, not just speed.
7. Final Rally Point 🏆
Your forehand can be a game-changer if you commit to proper technique from day one. Mastering grip, stance, and timing will give you the control to place the ball exactly where you want — and the power to finish points in style.
🎾 Remember: practice with purpose, not just repetition. Every shot is a step toward becoming the player you want to be.
