The serve is one of the most important shots in tennis. Every point starts with it! For beginners it can seem to be a bit complex, because there are all kinds of movements involved. For example, you are using both arms, but they are doing different things at the same time!
Let's break it down into several smaller parts.
I have included some videos and photos for your benefit.
Here we go!
- First of all, realize that it is a shot that is hit above the head. It's an overhead shot.
- Use a Continental Grip. If this is too difficult - and the ball goes all over the place - you can use a grip a bit closer to your forehand grip.
- Take a stance behind the baseline. Your left shoulder (if you are right-handed) should point in the direction of the service box you're aiming at. (If you're fuzzy about where that is, visit the rules page for more information.)
- Toss the ball with your left hand, while swinging your racket up behind you. Your toss should be about half a racket higher than you can reach with your racket. If you wouldn't hit the ball, it would land into the court
- When the ball is at its highest, you let your racket drop behind your back. Your left arm drops as well.
- As your racket drops behing your back, turn your right shoulder forward and reach up to hit the ball.
- Your contact point is in front of you, so - at impact - you can lean forward in the direction of your shot. (This link opens in a new window. Close that window to get back to this page.)
- Assuming you are right-handed, your service movement ends on the left side of your body.
