Rec and Sports

Overhead Smash-The Best Defense Against the Lob

When playing serve and volley strategy your opponent is probably going to use the lob to keep you from coming to the net. If your opponent is a good base liner they will throw up the unexpected lob which force you back from a net position to your own baseline.  After playing your first volley cross court from a strong net position your opponent, who anticipated your volley react quickly and hits a good under spin lob. If you hesitate you lose. You must get back to be able to play the bounce smash. Power is not important, your goal is to regain your attacking position by smashing deep with good placement. Your best option is to hit the ball cross court, your opponent will not be expecting a smash and will probably be caught off guard.

Hit a Better Overhead Smash:

1. Don’t aim too close to the lines. Leave a safety margin.

2. Make sure you’re facing sideways when you swing.

3. Keep loose, if you stiffen up you’ll get much less power.

4. Transfer your body weight onto your front foot as you meet the ball.

5. Take lots of small adjusting steps as you position yourself to hit the ball.

6. Don’t try to hit the ball super hard.  You’re be off balance and you have a much higher chance of error.

Serve and volley strategy is a aggressive strategy that one should use often. Don’t be afraid to attack the net because your playing an opponent that has a good lob.  Learn how to hit a good solid overhead smash then use it aggressively to stay in your game.

Laura Farris http://www.yellowballfever.com I am the creator of yellowballfever.com. This blog is a free tennis video tutorial which includes lessons for all the tennis strokes. The blog also discuss exercises and stretches that promote muscles that will enhances play on the tennis court.