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How to Hit an Overhead

Grip: *The correct grip for the overhead is the continental grip.

What to know: The Overhead is similar to the serve. In fact, it is nearly identical in terms of form. Your service should look like your overhead without tossing the ball yourself. The main difference is that there is no spin on an overhead (or very little depending on the angle)

Fundamentals:

  1. Stand sideways!
  2. Get your racquet back quickly behind your head (back scratch position)
  3. Use your non-dominant hand to follow the ball through the air
  4. Lastly, make contact with the ball at the highest possible point to maximize power

Comments (3)

Lordy
Said this on 1-28-2009 At 10:27 pm
Do you have any tips for not hitting the ball into the net? It is so frustrating!
Reply to this Comment
Lordy
Said this on 1-28-2009 At 10:27 pm
Do you have any tips for not hitting the ball into the net? It is so frustrating!
Reply to this Comment
Steve
Said this on 2-3-2009 At 12:46 am
This is a pretty basic article, but to answer your question, I would hit UP on the ball more. All too often, players hit down when they should be hitting up!

That being said, make sure you also snap the wrist..

Hope that helps

Steve Viglione
USPTA Pro
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