Practice Methods for Better Tennis – Simple Drills & Tools

If you want to hit stronger shots and move faster on the court, you need a practice plan that actually works. Forget long‑winded routines that leave you exhausted after one session. Below are real‑world methods you can plug into any schedule, whether you have a court nearby or just a small space at home.

Quick drills you can do anywhere

Start with a shadow swing. Stand in front of a mirror or a wall, swing a racket without a ball, and focus on smooth footwork. Do ten forehand swings, ten backhands, then repeat with a half‑speed volley. This builds muscle memory without draining your energy.

Next, try the “wall bounce” drill. Find a solid wall and hit a ball against it, letting it rebound. Aim for a consistent rhythm – 30 seconds of hitting, 15 seconds rest, repeat three times. You’ll instantly improve timing and hand‑eye coordination.

For footwork, set up four cones or shoes in a square about five meters apart. Move forward, backward, side‑to‑side, and diagonal, touching each cone with a quick step. Do this for 1 minute, then rest. It mimics the quick changes you face in a rally and boosts agility.

Using tools like ball machines and apps

A ball machine can be a game‑changer if you don’t have a partner. Load it with a mix of slow and fast balls, set the spin to low, and practice your serve return. Focus on one shot at a time – first just the forehand, then the backhand. The machine provides endless repetition, which is the core of any skill.

If a machine feels pricey, grab a free app on your phone. Many apps let you record your swing and give slow‑motion playback. Watch the video, spot where your racquet drops too low or your hips don’t rotate, and fix it next time. The visual feedback speeds up improvement.

Combine a simple drill with a timer app. Set a 5‑minute interval, and during that time hit as many controlled forehands as you can from the baseline. Count your successful shots, reset the timer, and try to beat your previous total. The short burst keeps you sharp and builds stamina.

Don’t forget recovery. After each practice, stretch your shoulders, wrists, and calves for 30 seconds each. A quick foam‑roll on your forearms can also reduce tension. These tiny steps keep you injury‑free and ready for the next session.

Remember, consistency beats intensity. A 20‑minute focused routine three times a week yields better results than a two‑hour marathon once a month. Pick a few of the drills above, stick to them, and watch your game lift faster than you think.