The Forehand Approach Shot

In this video, you will learn how to hit a forehand approach shot.

When your opponent has hit a short ball, it's an opportunity for you to attack and seal the point

The three key steps are the preparation, the shot and the follow through

Use a semi-western or western grip for the forehand approach shot

Step 1

The Preparation

Start with a split step

As soon as you spot a short ball, run towards it quickly

When you approach the ball do one or two side steps, with the non racket leg in front

Step 2

The Shot

Bend your wrist back and drop your racket arm

Swing the racket in a C shaped movement as you approach the ball

Hit the ball in front of the body and when it is higher or around waist height

It's important to strike the ball at the top of its bounce so that the trajectory is downward, which leaves less time for the opponent to react

If you let the ball drop, you will be forced to hit the ball in a rainbow trajectory which allows your opponent to get quickly to the ball and hit a passing shot

Brush the ball forward and follow through above your non racket shoulder

Step 3

The follow through

Accelerate through contact in one movement until your follow through

You can take off and land on your non racket leg

Close in agressively and get to to the net to volley

A common mistake is to run to the ball and stop with both feet firmly grounded

This breaks your momentum to carry you into the volley

Have a partner feed you short balls on your forehand to help you work on your approach shot

Enjoy your game