Lesson 09: Tennis Serve Lesson & Strategy with Ryan Reidy

As I struggled with my consistency and power on my serve, Ryan Reidy from 2minutetennis evaluated my serve (using Zoom) and offered excellent pointers for improvement.

 Strategy Video:

 

 Zoom Video with Ryan

Serve Video (Side View)

Serve Video (Rear View)

Serve Placement Strategy

1. In doubles, serve 80% of the time from the corner of the singles alley, 10% from mid-center, and 10% from the doubles alley.
   
2. In singles, serve 80% of the time from the corner

Serve Technique

1. Keep the head still even after serving; do not look where the ball is going!
2. Serve the ball more in front to get more power and a better angle
3. Use the left hand for an extra 5-10% of power 
4. Beware of the foot fault
   

Singles Strategy

1. Return serve back up the middle (become more consistent on returns) 
2. Vary the height of your shot over the net - not speed
   
• Hit low        = when closest to the net
• hit medium = when mid-court
  
• Hit high       = when at baseline
3. Hit more forehands (run around backhand)
   

Doubles Strategy

1. Hit the ball to players in the same position as you (baseliner to baseliner, net player to net player)
• Exception: On low volleys, hit to the baseliner
2. When hitting an overhead, hit the opponent closest (take time away from your opponent)
   
3. When you lob your opponent, move back to the service line (move toes to the service line)