Volley technique: compact body and forward weight

Volley13:29Nov 3, 2025

Key takeaway from our Guru

How do I hit a more powerful and compact volley?

You must push your body weight into the ball and keep your racket vertical to brush down the back of the ball. Squeeze your elbows and shoulders together to stay compact and ensure your left leg creates enough space for a clean contact point.

What this lesson covers

The volley requires constant forward momentum and a compact body position. Players often lean back on their heels, causing the ball to float. Instead, maintain a ready position leaning over the toes, as if receiving a push from behind. This posture allows the player to drive the body weight into the ball at the moment of impact. The left leg serves as the anchor, determining the necessary distance from the body to the contact point. Stepping forward with the left foot ensures space to hit, even when the ball arrives at the hip or body.

To generate power and slice, keep the racket in a vertical position, similar to holding a glass of wine without spilling it. Avoid a large swing; keep movements medium-sized and compact. At impact, brush down the back of the ball to create spin rather than swinging across the side. Squeezing the shoulders and elbows together creates a compact frame, enabling the player to act like a dynamo on court. After each shot, return immediately to the ready position to maintain intensity throughout the rally.

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Original video

Good for

Skill level

Intermediate, High Intermediate, Advanced, High Advanced, Professional

Court position

Net

Play style

Offensive

Secondary shot

Slice

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