My Favorite Serving Pointers

It is important to remember that the serve is the single most important shot in tennis. Because it starts off every point, how well it is hit will determine who has the initial advantage. In doubles, a deep first serve to the backhand usually creates such a weak return that the serving team can take control of the net. In singles, a strong serve allows the server to control the center of the court and keep his opponent on the run. In both singles and doubles, the server has such as advantage that he is expected to win (hold) his serve most of the time. When their serves are weak, however, the receiver gains the advantage and has a good chance to break serve.

Since the serve is so crucial, it is critical that you develop a reliable motion that will allow you to put in a high percentage of deep first serves. By following these four simple rules, you can add more offense to your game.

1. Relaxed Windup– It is important to keep your racquet arm loose and relaxed so that it can accelerate quickly. Hold the racquet loosely with a continental grip (index knuckle on the bevel). Wind up slowly so that you stay synchronized with your tossing arm. Cock your racquet arm fully in the back and allow the racquet head to loop down.
2. Straight Toss– You must toss the ball straight into the natural swingpath of your racquet. If you chase a bad toss you will probably misshit the ball, losing both power and control, Hold the ball loosely between your thumb and first two fingers. Keep your hand sideways (not palm up). Raise your arm up from your shoulder keeping your elbow and wrist straight. Release the ball smoothly when your hand is over your head and your arm is vertical. Ideally the toss should be in front of your right shoulder (left shoulder for lefties) and about three feet over your head.
3. Wrist Snap– You will generate a lot of extra racquethead speed if you quickly turn your forearm and hand outward at contact. This motion is much like unscrewing and over head lightbulb; it does not involve the actual bending down of the wrist. You will also want to keep both your head and should up so that your racquet will be vertical at contact.
4. Balanced Follow-through– After contact, the racquethead should drop straight down and lead the way around the left side (right side for lefties). You should bend forward and step across the baseline towards your target. Do not fall off to the side. This means the toss was poorly placed and you will be off balance for the next shot.

Remember that to be an effective server you must keep the receiver back and off balance. Rather than trying to blast aces, put in a high percentage of deep first serves by swinging at a more reliable three-quarter speed. Vary the placement somewhat but aim primarily to the weaker backhand side. Keep in mind that your advantage disappears when you put in short second serves. By following these four simple rules, however, you will be able to hold serve regularly and be in great demand as a doubles partner.