How To Hit A Running Forehand In Tennis

The running forehand in tennis can be a challenging shot to hit, but with the right technique, it becomes a valuable addition to your game. This shot allows you to reach balls that are outside of your comfortable hitting zone, turning defence into offence. In this blog post, I will discuss the step-by-step process of how to hit a running forehand in tennis.

Plant your dominant foot and stop running when you are hitting the ball.

Prepare Early

The secret to hitting a running forehand is to prepare for it early. Anticipate the opponent's next shot to know when to make your move. The moment you realise that the ball is not going to land within your striking range, start moving. Take small, quick steps to cover the distance between you and the ball. By doing so, you are getting into the right position to hit the shot. As you run, keep your eye on the ball so that you can time your movement to the ball.

Take A Few Shuffle Steps

As you approach the ball, take a few shuffle steps to slow down your momentum. This gives you a better chance of setting up for your shot. Try to avoid taking large strides as this will destabilize your body and make it difficult to hit a clean forehand.

Position Yourself Correctly

As you reach the ball, make sure to position yourself correctly. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart with your body facing the net. Keep a slight bend in your knees, and maintain your balance by keeping your weight on the balls of your feet.

Use Your Non-Dominant Hand

As you prepare to hit the running forehand, use your non-dominant hand to help balance yourself and keep your body stable. Your non-dominant hand should be extended out in front of you, pointing towards the direction of the ball. This will also help you generate more power in your shot.

Swing Through The Ball

Just like a regular forehand, you want to make contact with the ball in front of your body. Keep your racket face slightly closed and aim for a low-to-high swing motion. This will help you generate topspin, giving your shot more control and depth. The buggy whip tennis forehand is a good stroke to execute when running.

Recover Back To The Center

After hitting the running forehand, quickly recover back towards the centre of the court. If you continue moving in the same direction, you will leave too much space open for your opponent to exploit. By recovering back to the centre, you are giving yourself a better chance to return any shots that may come your way.

Conclusion

The running forehand is a valuable shot to have in your arsenal. By preparing early, taking shuffle steps, positioning yourself correctly, using your non-dominant hand, swinging through the ball and recovering back to the centre, you will be able to hit this shot with more consistency and control.