Basic Tennis Drills for Every Player!

by Coaches Jenalee & Preston

Ready to hit the courts and improve your tennis game? Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to shake off some rust, these 10 basic drills are your ticket to better rallies, stronger serves, and more confident play. We'll focus on fundamental techniques and movements, breaking down each drill with easy-to-understand explanations and handy diagrams. Let's get started!

1. Mini Tennis Rally

This is where it all begins! Mini tennis focuses on control and hand-eye coordination in a smaller space.

How it works: Stand closer to the net (around the service line) and gently rally back and forth with a partner. Focus on keeping the ball in play and hitting it softly over the net.

Why it helps: Develops feel for the ball, racquet control, and basic rallying skills.

2. Baseline Groundstrokes Drill

Once you've got the hang of mini tennis, it's time to step back and work on your main shots. This drill is all about building consistency from the back of the court.

How it works: Player stands at the baseline. A partner or ball machine feeds balls to the forehand and backhand sides. Focus on full, controlled swings and moving your feet to get in position for each shot.

Why it helps: Builds consistency and power from the back of the court, improves footwork and shot placement.

3. Volley-to-Volley Drill

Ready to sharpen your reflexes? This drill is all about quick hands and control at the net. It's a fun, fast-paced exercise that will have you feeling like a pro in no time.

How it works: Two players stand close to the net on opposite sides. They volley the ball back and forth to each other, trying to keep the rally going without the ball bouncing. Start slowly and increase the pace as you get more comfortable.

Why it helps: Improves reaction time, volley technique, and net-play reflexes. It also teaches you to control the ball with a shorter, more compact swing.

4. Approach Shot and Volley Drill

This drill is all about versitility. And being assertive at the net.

How it works: Player hits a short ball (approach shot) and moves forward to the net to hit a volley. Feeder provides both balls.

Why it helps: Develops the ability to transition from defense to offense, improves footwork, and finishing points at the net.

As coaches, we wil work on these drills and more with players depending on skills and weaknesses. Schedule a lesson (or two today). 801-232-6877. Learn more about which coach is right for your player here.