The Six Core Strokes

Every rally you will ever play is built from these six shots.

1. Forehand

Dominant-side groundstroke. Load, unit turn, drop the racquet head, swing low-to-high, finish over the shoulder.

2. Backhand

One- or two-handed. Turn early, non-dominant hand pulls the racquet through contact.

3. Serve

The only shot fully in your control. Toss to 1 o'clock (right-hander), continental grip, trophy pose, drop, pronate.

4. Return of serve

Split step just before the server's contact. Short backswing. Get it deep.

5. Volley

Continental grip, no backswing. Punch forward. Move through the ball, not around it.

6. Overhead

Turn sideways, point at the ball with your off-hand, serve motion. Never let it bounce unless the sun is in your eyes.