How To Master The Smash Shot

Step 1: Your grip

From the ready position, select your grip. We recommend the continental grip for more power and spin. This grip is also known as the chopper grip because it's how you'd hold an axe for chopping.

The V of your thumb and forefinger should be on the top edge of the racket's handle.

Step 2: Position your feet

As soon as you see the tennis ball going into the air, you need to turn sideways as if you were going to serve.

Pivoting your feet will, quite naturally, turn you side on to the ball.

Step 3: Position your body

Bring your racket back into a throwing position. Keep your elbow in line with your shoulders.

At the same time as you bring the racket back, use your other arm to point up at the ball. This helps you find your position as the tennis ball comes towards you.

Judge the flight of the tennis ball and move into position directly behind it.

As you move, stay side on to the ball, using side steps and cross steps to adjust your position.

Step 4: Your swing

As the ball arrives, accelerate the racket head at the ball in a throwing action. As you swing, your weight shifts forwards onto your front foot, putting your bodyweight into the ball.

Tip: Reach up to hit the ball. The higher you make contact, the more power you can generate. The secret to a killer smash is not in how hard you hit the ball. Timing is the key.

Step 5: Follow through

Follow through across your body with the racket ending up around your waist.

TIP: relax your arm at the end of the follow through. This helps avoid tennis elbow.

And then recover quickly, returning to the ready position.

And there you have it! A killer smash - the decisive, attacking shot that should win you the point.