Today, we had some fun using a basketball hoop. In the first exercise, we tried to score by hitting different compression tennis balls through the hoop. In the second exercise, we tried to rally off the backboard. Both drills required control, placement, and opening up the racquet face to get the proper height. Good practice…
While sitting in the car waiting for take out, we spotted bushes and ropes, which resembled a perfect net. Out came the racquets and we practiced rallying and volleying over the shrubs in the parking lot. Over the last eight weeks, it has been fun to see all of the makeshift tennis courts online –…
Today, we add a mental toughness component to the exercises that were presented in Episode 48, which focus on the lymphatic system and improving immunity to the virus. The exercise itself is the physical component. Saying affirmations will help with mental training. Try sayings, such as: I Am Happy (pulling ear lobes), I Am Healthy…
Today, we focus on applying spin on serves. In the video and in this narrative, we assume the server and receiver are right handed. Use the continental grip. To impart slice, your racquet should travel in a 9 to 3 o’clock path. This will be effective when serving wide on the deuce side and to…
Oh my goodness- this is a very unfamiliar activity for us, but beneficial. Coach Raj shared the video Stretch at Home, Exercise to Improve your Immune System from Dr. Ankita Dhelia. The exercises focus on stimulating the lymphatic system and improving immunity to the virus. Recommendations: pulling ear lobes (2 min), ear cycles (2 min),…
Today, we have a new interpretation of target tennis. Regardless, if you are inside or outside, select different objects and toss to targets (wastepaper cans, buckets, containers). Vary the distance, which will force you to adjust the height of your toss/throw. An underhand toss is related to back spin and an overhand toss can be…
We hope you have enjoyed the episodes, learned some tips and improved several physical and mental habits that may benefit you, on and off the court. It seems hopeful that we may soon be allowed to return to the courts. One of the many ways we need to modify our behavior is to minimize touching…
Today, we add some fun racquet and footwork drills. The first two racquet drills are challenging, as you can only use the edge of your racquet frame to make contact. You can practice ups and downs. Start with letting the ball bounce between hits and then progress to volleys. Next, do ups/volleys, but try to…
Today, we add moving forward after the contact on the return of serve. If you return cross court, this move enables you to continue to transition through contact and arrive around the service line (nonballside home in doubles). Keep your head and eyes still at contact. On the backhand, use a carioca or grapevine step…
In Episode 41, we discussed the footwork for the serve and volley. In the next two episodes, we will focus on the footwork for the receiver. In the first exercise, Judy requests that Cos follows her ready steps with a split step. The overall goal for today’s exercise is to practice moving immediately after the…