How To Master The Forehand Volley

Step 1: Adopt your position

To volley you need to be about 1.5 metres from the tennis net. Stand in the ready position. This is crucial as you have less time to react now that you're at the net.

Alter the ready position very slightly by bringing the racket head a little higher.

Move your elbows forward so they're just in front of your body.

Split-step, or do a little bounce, as your opponent makes contact with the ball. This prepares your body to move in any direction.

Step 2: Your grip

You can volley a ball using any of the forehand grips. However, we recommend a chopper grip, the same one you use for your ready position.

Just keep the V of your thumb and forefinger on the top edge of the racket handle.

Step 3: Prepare

As you see the ball coming, move your head and hands towards the ball. This should bring the racket head out into position in front of you.

Keep your tennis racket up. The head should be directly above your wrist.

TIP: Your racket and arm make a V shape.

Step 4: Hit the ball

The shot is a short, punchy action and takes place entirely in front of you. There is no backswing, just a punch of the racket.

TIP: Imagine there is a wall directly behind you, so you don't take the racket back.

Step into the shot as your racket moves in to meet the ball. Angle the racket towards the sidelines, or away from your opponent.

Use your wrist and forearm to bring the racket head down on the ball in a sharp action.

Step 5: Recover

For a volley there is no follow through. Simply get back into the centre of the court as quickly as you can and adopt the ready position for your next shot.