Topspin, flat and slice—three different serves that will turn you inside out if you're caught flat-footed on the tennis court.
If you're constantly on the receiving end of aces, it's time to fine-tune your game with the help of University of Virginia coach Brian Boland.
Here, Boland serves up some tips for setting up and returning an opponent's serve.
Ready Position
• Wide-base stance, feet just beyond shoulders
• Racket out in front of your body in a comfortable position
• Eyes on the ball
Boland: Having your eyes on the ball means seeing the ball as it leaves the hand of the server. You want to start having that visual effect early.
The Serve
• Start moving forward once the toss goes up
• Get into a split-step stance when the ball is struck
Boland: Everything's out in front, you're moving forward, and you want to go forehand or backhand.
The Return
• Move forward into shot
• Turn and push off your outside foot to shorten backswing
• Keep your wrists firm on the follow through for forehand and backhand returns
Boland: You do not want to have a big backswing. The serve is hit with some force. The bigger the backswing, the less control and accuracy you have.
Photo Credit: Getty Images // Thinkstock
