Forehand technique: ready position and preparation

What this lesson covers

Building a forehand starts with an athletic ready position. Feet remain narrow to allow movement in any direction, including towards the glass. The racket stays low with a continental or slightly forehand-biased grip, while knees remain bent and weight stays on the balls of the feet.

Preparation involves moving the tip of the racket back while keeping the elbow tucked in. A sideways stance is required to ensure a comfortable contact point, whether moving forward or backward. Players must find a moment of balance before the swing. The racket path then dictates the shot type, such as driving upward for a lob or flattening the path for a low ball.

Technique is only effective when paired with ball-reading skills. Beginners often need to practice judging the flight and speed of the ball through throwing and catching drills before integrating the full swing. The cycle concludes with a recovery back to a neutral position before the opponent strikes again.