The Service Return
Tennis expert Fabián Nuñez Seixa shows VideoJug how to hit a service return. Learn how to master the service return in four easy steps with this great video.
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Step 1:
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Court position
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The best place in the court to receive a service is that which best covers all possible angles.
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Avoid leaving too much space on either side and making it easy for your opponent to hit a service winner.
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It is always easier to reach a ball down the line than one across you, so be sure to cover more space on your far side.
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An ideal position for receiving a first serve is one metre in from the edge of the court, and a metre behind the baseline.
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For a second serve, you have more time, so move in to the baseline.
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Step 2:
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Be ready
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Pay attention to the ball from the moment your opponent begins the serve. Stand by, holding your racquet in front of you and with your knees flexed.
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Step 3:
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React
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A strong first service will not give you time to make a long back swing,
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Just react to the serve as best you can, moving to the side with the minimum possible effort of both body and racquet.
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Second serves are usually slower, so you may be able to move your feet and arms into a more comfortable position to hit your return.
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Step 4:
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The shot
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The forehand return:
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As the ball comes towards you, move your racquet out to the right, just behind the point at which it will meet the ball.
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Your feet should be on the ground in the same position and your racquet, arm and shoulder in line with the ball ready to hit it.
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Lead with your racquet arm as you hit the ball, and move forward with your left foot to keep your balance afterwards, falling into the shot as you continue to swing your racquet through and over your shoulder.
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The backhand return:
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Move your racquet to the left as the ball approaches, holding it just behind the point of impact with racquet, arm and shoulder all in line with the ball.
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Lead with your racquet arm as you hit the ball, then fall into the shot by moving your right foot forward and across you to keep your balance as you swing your racquet through.