Tennis: The Half Volley

Step 1: The split step

After hitting your serve or baseline shot, start to come in towards the net. At the exact moment your opponent plays their shot, take a split step.

Step 2: Move to the ball

Once your opponent has made their shot, you know exactly where the ball is going.

The split step allows you to watch the ball while your body stands by, ready to move in any direction.

If you do not make the split step, you could easily end up wrong-footed, losing the ball and the point.

Step 3: The shot

Keep moving forward as you play the ball for a deeper, more aggressive shot. Lead with your racquet while your body follows behind, "walking with the shot".

The technique for playing a half volley is the same as Fab describes in our videos "the forehand volley" and "the basic backhand volley".

Meet the ball with the top of your racquet at eye level and the racquet head leaning slightly backwards for maximum control over your shot.

The difference when playing a half volley is that you propel the ball forwards rather than letting it bounce off your racquet. Swing through to maintain your momentum as you move quickly in to the net.

Watch our videos on the forehand and backhand volleys for more details on the shot, and to learn how to follow a successful half volley with a volleyed winner.