Importance of a proper follow through

Chandrachur Mukherjee Asked 6 years ago

Hi Alois,

I recorded today's practice session. Then I was comparing my strokes to yours in the video. So I found out that the starting position was okay, and till the point of contact the stroke was alright. But I saw that I had a very short follow through compared to your videos.

For example, my backhand and forehand chops which are supposed to finish at the knee level just stop quickly just after making successful contact with the ball (at waist level). Especially in my backhand topspin I noticed that you mention that the finishing position with the racket is when the racket head points towards the other side. But I go nowhere near that position.

While playing I find that by stopping more quicker I can have more time to prepare for the next ball. I don't understand why a follow through is that essential. Should I try to improve this, or is it alright to do shots like this.

Thanks

Alois Rosario Answered 6 years ago

Hi Chandrachur,

The follow through helps with the consistency of the stroke and also the speed of your contact.  If you are stopping straight after the contact there is a chance that you will be tensing your arm on contact and not getting the speed that is possible.  

There is a place for a shorter follow through if the ball is coming back very fast and you don't have time.