Kick smash technique: contact point and brush

What this lesson covers

The kick smash requires a vertical brush of the ball rather than a flat strike. Players often rush the movement and hit the ball too far in front, which prevents the necessary topspin. The contact point must be behind the body to allow for an upward trajectory. Power originates from the legs and the body moving down and up, not from the arm swing alone.

To develop the correct sensation, focus on brushing the back of the ball while keeping the body relaxed. The goal is to see the ball rise steeply off the court surface. Opening the grip slightly can assist in achieving the required spin. Do not prioritize hitting the ball out of the court during practice. Instead, prioritize the feeling of the brush and the vertical bounce of the ball. This approach suits players who possess raw power but struggle to generate the spin needed for a consistent kick smash.