Adding spin in forehand for beginner players

In this video, our player is learning to generate topspin effect onto the ball in forehand stroke. This effect is very important in order to be able to accelerate the ball without losing control and sending it out. We can see if the ball had topspin by looking at its forward rotation. In addition, when passing over the net the ball takes a parabolic path.

Generally, there are three main types of effects that can be put on the ball depending on the way we hit it: topspin, flat (no spin) and backspin. Each of those effects gives the ball a different trajectory in the air and affects the way how it bounces.

• there is no rotation / spin on the ball
• a player hits the ball with the racket head perpendicular to the coming ball, at 90º

• has a forward rotation / spin
• a player rotates the head of the racket over the top of the ball when hitting it

• has a backward rotation / spin
• a player angles his racket back and slides it underneath the ball when hitting it

We will cover the differences in movement behavior during flight of the balls undergoing different spins in future tennis lessons for beginner players.

In order to hit the balls with topspin, first of all, the player has to hold the racket with a semi-western grip. A beginner player should prepare the backswing by putting the racket back in an upright position. When we put it in a horizontal position it is more likely for a flatter shot. Thanks to the upright racket position at the beginning we can round the swing movement and hit the ball by entering it from low to high. The student is learning how to round the wrist and transfer the bodyweight forward.

The main learning points from this tennis lesson for beginners are:

1. Use the semi-western grip to be able to apply topspin effect to the ball.
2. Prepare the backswing with the racket in an upright position.
3. Hit the ball forwards from low to high by brushing the top of the ball.
4. The ball follows a parabolic path above the net.
5. To enhance this effect, it is good to bend your knees before hitting.

By adding topspin to the ball a player can hit with more control!

In this video, Javi gives key tips to beginner players to be able to start hitting forehand stroke with topspin. He is also demonstrating two exercises to practice adding spin to the ball when hitting forehands from the service line.