Lesson 06: Tennis with Gary Jordao - Early Prep

During today's lesson with Gary Jordao, I focused on improving my forehand and backhand spacing. 

I have developed a bad habit of getting too close to the ball. I need more space between me and the incoming tennis ball to execute a full forehand or backhand stroke.

After a 30-minute class, we played a singles match. I was still slow to prepare, and my split step was often missing. My forehand still has too much backswing, and I don't usually bend my knees enough.

Additional Tennis Clinics

• Saddlebrook Resort (5 hours/day, near Tampa, FL)

Forehand

1. Split step when the opponent hits the ball
   
2. Prepare early (twist the shoulder)
   
3. Work on staying further away.
4. Keep feet further apart (wide stance)
   
5. Bend the knees
6. On low balls, bend the knees even further!
   
7. Breathe out during the stroke

 Backhand 

1. Split step when the opponent hits the ball 
   
2. Prepare early (twist the shoulder)
   
3. During the backhand stroke, avoid turning the wrist
   
4. Work staying further away
5. Keep feet further apart (wide stance)
   
6. Bend the knees
7. Make sure to continue the stroke low to high without stopping

Helpful Video - Tennis IQ

 

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