Forehand timing and balance problems

Andrew Pape Asked 12 years ago

Hi Alois,

My practice partner noticed my footwork was sloppy and I was leaning backwards when playing some forehands. This happened a lot after I'd looped. When my loop was blocked back with funny spin, my next hit, a flat hit, missed every time.

What should I do to get the f/hand ball earlier? A coach had said to take the ball both in front of the body and also to the right. Perhaps if I used the non-playing arm to point to the ball?

An organiser said he'd seen me doing some awkward leaning action that he thought could account for back injuries I've had. I'm hoping to get the technique right and stay injury-free. I guess I could prevent the leaning by lowering my body but don't know the big picture... Any help appreciated.

Cheers,

Andrew.

Alois Rosario Answered 12 years ago

Hi Andrew,

I think staying lower may help all of those aspects.  By staying lower, you will also be able to stay more balanced and take the ball in the right position and then be able to be balanced for the next ball.

This will also help you to make a topspin rather than a flat hit on the next ball because you are lower and able to start below the contact point.