Jorge Capestany — TennisDrills TV

Serve Spin-Ups

Perhaps one of the most difficult things for players to learn is the use of the continental grip on the serve. This is especially true for new players that have already experienced a degree of success with a forehand grip.

As a teaching pro, we can all relate to the student that struggle with mastering this important grip.

I have found that one of the obstacles for learning this grip on the serve is that players have a difficult time wrapping their minds around what actually happens to the ball when it meets the strings. In essence, their brains have a hard time computing that even though the racket face will travel in one direction the ball will go in another direction. To help players grasp this concept, it is helpful to have them do a simple ball control exercise where they tap the ball up in the air (without bouncing) while they impart slice on the ball.

Once they get the hang of this trick, they can see with their own eyes that it is possible for the racket to travel in one direction and the ball in another.

Now all they need to do is transpose that same ball and racket action, but by the side of their head (serving) instead of tapping the ball straight up.

I have found this drill to be very useful in helping players that are struggling with the continental grip. Give it a try and see what happens.

Jorge Capestany - TennisDrills TV

Jorge is the Founder of www.tennisdrills.tv - a video based website that shows more than 700 videos of tennis drills and tips. Jorge is one of only nine people world-wide that is a Master Professional with both the USPTA and PTR. Jorge is a 6-time Michigan Pro of the Year a 2-time Midwest Pro of the Year. Jorge has coached hundreds of ranked juniors including 3 national champions.