A grip describes how the hand holds the racket. Its practical value becomes clear at contact, where the position of the hand influences the racket face and the ball. The player’s hand size, contact height and intention all help explain which grip works in a particular situation.
Grip and contact
A forehand grip and a one-handed backhand grip set up different relationships between the hand, racket face and contact point. The continental grip is an important foundation for serving, volleying and overhead play. Inside Out examines these families through the way the racket and arm organise the intended action, rather than treating every stroke as an isolated hand position.
Preparing the grip change
A technically appropriate grip offers little help if the player reaches it too late. The supporting hand can assist racket organisation while the trunk turns. Practise changing between likely successive strokes so preparation includes the grip change. This is particularly relevant when moving from a groundstroke to a volley.
Assessing the effect on the ball
An apparent grip problem may also involve spacing or a contact that is too late. Before changing the hand position, check the ball the player is receiving and where contact occurs. A change should improve control across relevant heights and speeds, not merely produce one impressive ball.
Final reflection
Once you have identified the grip, check whether the player can get to it in time and control the racket face at the required contact height.
Explore the related book ↗Educational information. Adapt training to the individual; health and return-to-play decisions require an appropriately qualified professional.
