Wrist on the Forehand Topspin

Pedja Maric Asked 12 years ago

Hi, Pingskills

I have a question about the technique of Forehand Topspin. You see, when you perform a Backhand Topspin, you have to use your hand wrist, to twist it a little bit to execute that shot, like Jeff demonstrated. What I don't understand is using hand wrist in Forehand Topspin. I see some people that use wrist a lot, almost like a whip. What I mean is that they twist their wrist more backwards and then they come forward with topspin. What do you think about it? In your demonstrations I see that Jeff is not using his hand wrist that much. Can you help me with this dilemma? Best regards to you all

Alois Rosario Answered 12 years ago

Hi Pedja,

You have read our minds.  We filmed a lesson on this last week which will be on the site soon.

To answer your question though, you don't use your wrist as much with the forehand as with the backhand.  Just think about keeping the wrist relaxed through the stroke and let it come through with the stroke.  You will notice that the wrist will naturally go back at the start and follow through slightly at the end of the stroke.  I don't think you need to whip your wrist through the ball as this will lead to more errors.

Watch out for the new lesson on the Advanced Forehand Topspin.