Serve and net positioning: technical fundamentals

What this lesson covers

The serve requires hitting the ball at waist height to maintain aggression. Standing on tiptoes increases the contact point, but players must avoid confusing the waist with the hip. Serving to the side glass forces a difficult rebound, while body serves limit the opponent's movement and create weak returns. When serving, maintain a continental grip and avoid a stiff wrist to prevent elbow issues.

Net positioning involves covering the lateral wall rather than standing in the center. Players should anticipate the ball and avoid moving backward when receiving deep shots, opting to step forward instead. When volleying, use the legs and body rotation for power rather than relying solely on the arm. Keep the non-dominant hand as a reference point to ensure the ball stays in front of the body. Volleys should be low to high, with the racket face accelerating through the ball to create spin. Consistency is built by choosing simple, effective shots rather than forcing winners. The goal is to pressure opponents by limiting their ability to play lobs, forcing them into defensive positions.