The Basic (Classic) Forehand
by Mat Galemmo

At practice, some players try too many irregular motions. This will inhibit muscle retention in your strokes. It's a good idea to stay "basic" to build your stroke consistency.

THE GRIP: Shake hands with the racket. (eastern grip) Extend your index finger in a trigger fashion.

WAITING POSITION: Stand facing the net, knees slightly bent, weight evenly distributed and forward on the balls of your feet. The racket is held in front of your body, elbows in close and parallel to the ground. The racket is supported with your free hand.

TURN: The shoulders and hips pivot and the right foot turns toward the net post as you transfer your weight to it. The forearm is parallel to the ground. The racket head angle with the forearm remains the same.

BACKSWING: From the turn position, the racket goes back until it is parallel to the ground- the angle between forearm and racket still remaining the same. The butt of the racket is pointing toward the net and the racket is on edge.

STEP AND HIT: The left foot steps toward the net with the weight shifting on to it. The ball is contacted opposite the left leg, approximately waist high; the arm is relatively straight and the wrist firm.

FOLLOW THROUGH: The follow through is a long, continuous sweeping motion finishing high with the racket butt opposite the left eye, (for right handers). The weight is now altogether on the front foot with hips and shoulders turned into the stroke.

You can experiment with changes in your grip by trying continental or western after you have grooved your classic forehand. Try chipping and drop shots as well to build a variety of strokes.