Return：How to Play Tennis --- part II

1. Reaction
You've got no more than half a second to react to an opponent's first serve, so you'd better think -- and move -- fast! During warm-ups, if your opponent plunks a serve into the net, notice where your racquet is at that moment. If it's still in the ready position, chances are you would not have been ready for the shot.

2. Taking down the server
On the return of serve, your goal should always be to neutralize your opponent. The higher the level of game, the more the server has the advantage, so try to keep the ball low or hit it deep.

3.Pound 'em with pressure
Once you're able to get your opponent's serve back consistently, the next step is to gain directional control and see if you can keep the ball out of the middle of the court. Pressure the other guy's first serve, and more than likely his first-serve percentage will drop.

4. Beginner vs. beginner
If you're a beginner, the other beginners you'll be playing will rarely serve and volley, so do what you can to hit a deep return. Get your shoulders turned quickly. Keeping the shot deep will trap your opponent at the baseline and allow you to come in and attack the net.

5. How to hold the bat
You may ask, "When I'm waiting to receive serve, how should I hold my racquet?" The answer is: As long as you adjust your grip when you take your backswing, hold your racquet with any grip that feels comfortable.

6. Hold that baseline
Don't stand too deep in the court. Whenever possible, force yourself to return serve from the baseline area or, if you can, from just inside the baseline. That way, you'll pick up the ball earlier and react with a purpose.