Forehand ：How to Play Tennis --- part III

1. A weighting game
For a powerful forehand, load your weight onto your back leg. Then, after you get into the proper position, transfer your weight onto your left side as you start your swing, if you're a right-handed player, or transfer your weight onto your right side, if you're left-handed. By rotating your trunk, hips, and shoulders, you can play any type of forehand that you want.

2. At ease, shoulder
If you hit from an open stance, your directional control should not be coming from your hand, wrist, or elbow, but from your shoulder. The first step is to make a good upper-body turn, and then, when you uncoil your shoulders, swing out toward the target. That's where your control will come from.

3. Go deep
Keep the ball deep. I don't care how hard you hit it, just keep it deep! Power without depth is no good. Power with depth and consistency is the ultimate goal.

4. No arm done
Never stand completely sideways to the net when you hit your forehand. What you want is a slightly open stance, one that allows your hips to turn and release into the shot. This will help you generate more power using big muscles like your legs, hips, and shoulders, not just your arm!

5. Get ready
Whenever possible, prepare to hit your forehand while your opponent's shot is in the air. Why? Because by the time his shot hits the ground on your side of the net, your racquet will be back all the way, your shoulders locked and loaded. Also, remember to move your body at an angle that permits you to make a play on the ball before it gets too wide and pulls you off the court entirely.