Forehand weight transfer and follow-through for beginner players

In this tennis video, Javi gives a brief explanation how to transfer bodyweight forward in the execution of a forehand stroke to a beginner player. To generate power in this shot a player has to be able to transform the elastic energy stored in their legs and back-swinging arm into the ball at contact. In addition, Javi explains the correct follow-through which is the last stage in the execution of the shot.

In biomechanics, the tennis forehand is a sequence of motions referred to as the 'kinetic chain' made up of the various body segments involved in this specific stroke. As the starting point of this chain, the legs are the 'launching pad' for the hitting motion. The energy is then released through a sequence of upward and forward body movement and rotations thus creating linear and angular momenta which consequently transfer power into the shot.

• develops through forces generated from the ground when steps are taken forward and bodyweight is transferred from the back leg to the front leg

• develops from ground reaction forces and tends to produce a sequence of body rotations: legs, hips, torso, shoulder, arm, forearm, wrist, and racket

We will tackle the concept of the kinetic chain in more detail in future tennis lessons for beginner players.

Javi shows how to terminate the stroke by progressively reducing the speed of the racket after the impact. During the follow-through the non-dominant hand gently catches the racket. Finally, the racket should end its trajectory over the shoulder of the non-hitting arm.

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

1. For a neutral stance, position yourself sideway.
2. Swing the racket back in a vertical position and stop before starting the forward motion.
3. Begin the sequence of body rotations starting with the legs, followed by the hips, torso, shoulder, arm, forearm, wrist and racket.
4. Finish the shot with the weight of the body on the front foot and slightly raise the back foot.
5. Follow through and grab the racket at the end of the motion with your non-dominant hand.

Forward bodyweight transfer generates power in the forehand stroke!

In this video, Javi explains how to transfer bodyweight forward and how to do the right follow-through to finish the motion of a forehand stroke. In one simple exercise the player is practicing those concepts by hitting easy balls from the service line.