FOREHAND -- Critical elements of a Great Shot

These elements are critical for a great forehand in today's modern game: a) a high hand or high racquet take back b) an extended wrist c) separation distance of the elbow from the body d) significant hand speed to swing e) leg use or leg drive. To briefly comment on the importance of each element above I will begin with (a) the height of the hand allows for more speed and momentum to build up to contact. Shoulder height is minimum with top of human head level extreme, but still excellent. An extended wrist is critical for prestretching the hand for maximum acceleration AND for bloody racquet head control. Regarding (c), the elbow separation from the body allows for greater length of stroke! The longer the stroke the more powerful the stroke. The speed of the hand is quite important but must be practiced by swinging fast. Just swing faster! The legs are very important because with the open stance forehand, the drive or loading down into court allows for more rotation speed and 'torque' when swinging. When closing one's stance the greater leg bend allows for more proficient shifting of weight into the forehand, hence more power. afdd