FH counterhit finishing height - conflicting advice

Dear Alois and Jeff,

As many a newbie, I have a question about the height of the finishing position for the forehand counter hit. I have searched the ask the coach database, but don't seem to find an answer to my particular question. I know this is a common topic, though, so please bear with me.

So here it is : I have, during my personal practice, tried to focus on a good finishing point, based on your video. I even do a lot of shadow training to achieve consistent results. I've just joined my local club, and tonight was my second lesson. While practicing the counter hit, my coach told me that I was finishing too high, and should push forward more. I got the pushing okay, but got a bit confused for the height, since I had been doing just what I had seen in your video. So I decided to keep on finishing high at my eyebrow, and push more forward but the coach kept repeating, 'lower your bat, lower your bat'. So in the end, I ended the counter hit session finishing at about chin level or slightly less, which my coach seemed pleased with.

As a side note, my son's coach, in another town, also teaches them to finish much lower, about chin level or slightly lower. So I'm confused! Is it French style counter hit ;)

Now I'm not looking to embarass my local coaches or anything. But I do wonder if it really matters in the long run. Am I compromising my basics, when I actually joined a club to get sound technique? Should I persevere finishing high? Is chin level okay? At least, since I don't go past my middle line, I'm fine in that respect. Even French coaches don't encourage to go past your middle line.

At any rate, thanks in advance for your insight, which is much appreciated.

All the best,

Georges

Hi Georges,

What they are telling you is fine.  We emphasise the eyebrow because it is an easy reference point and also then translates well into the topspin.  However as long as you are not going past that middle line it is all OK.  As they are there to watch you while hitting it is good for them to give you that feedback regularly.