The Tennis Overhead

The overhead shot in tennis is somewhat related to the serve. The motion can be closely allied to the slice service, the racquet and arm swinging freely from the shoulder, the wrist flexible and the racquet imparting a slight twist to the ball to hold it in court. The beginner tennis player will have the most difficult time with the stroke and will benefit from instruction and drills.

Today, you might see players leaping to hit an overhead. The flare exhibited by these players is nice, but generally you do not need to leap to hit the ball. In the tennis fundamentals of the shot, try to keep at least one foot, and when possible both feet, on the ground in smashing, as it aids in regulating the weight, and gives better balance. Hit flat and decisively to the point if desired.

The best instruction to keep in mind is that it is very important to keep your eye on the ball, otherwise your timing will be off. A lack of confidence will also create errors. This mental handicap can cause a cramped, half-hearted swing.

The tennis overhead, as a tactic, is used more frequently in doubles. In singles the chances of passing the net man are greater than lobbing over his head, while in doubles two men cover the net so easily that the best way to open the court is to lob one man back

Beginners will soon learn that in hitting a overhead, the longest distance is the safest shot since it allows a greater margin of error. Thus hit overheads 'cross court when pressed, but pull your short lobs either side as determined by the man you are playing.

You should try to avoid letting an overhead drop so that you can hit it as a ground stroke. You may be surrendering an offensive position. The more tennis instructions, lessons and practice an individual has, he will avoid this approach.