Go to the Fence for Better Volleys

One of the most challenging lessons for beginners and intermediates is to avoid taking a big swing on the volley. Since most players learn to hit ground strokes first, they have a tendency to carry that swing over to the volley. But swinging on the volley is a sure way to make errors. A classic corrective measure used by tennis instructors everywhere can help you shorten this swing. And you don’t need a coach to do it, just a partner. Here’s how: Stand with your back against a court’s fence. Have your partner toss balls for you to volley. If your racquet clanks the fence, your swing is too big. Practice until you can hit volleys without striking the fence.