Bradford Athletics

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Bradford Tennis Tips - Strokes

How to Hit a Half Volley in Tennis

A half volley is one of the most difficult tennis shots to hit. This is a shot you want to avoid, if possible, if you can't take the ball in the air.

• STEP 1: Split step, bending the knees once you know you have to hit this shot.
• STEP 2: Keep your racket out in front of you, as if to hit a volley.
• STEP 3: Get down as you're opening the face of the racket, and catch the ball on a quick bounce close to the court surface.
• STEP 4: Firm up your wrist and forearm.
• STEP 5: Keep your head down to make good contact.
• STEP 6: Hit the ball with a closed stance (that is, step into the ball to hit this shot well) if possible.
• STEP 7: Keep the racket head above the wrist if possible.
• STEP 8: Follow through with a forward motion of the racket upon hitting the ball.
• STEP 9: Keep your arm extended at contact with the ball and during the follow-through.
• STEP 10: Finish up and out with the racket in the direction you're hitting the ball in.

Tips

• Practice this shot off the wall at midcourt distance, approximately 20 feet back. Keeping the racket out and in front of you, take a half-swing and hit the ball on a quick bounce.
• Practice hitting with a partner with both of you standing at the service line (middle of the court).