How do you get your shots to be deeper and more
penetrating? Many players try to just hit the same shot
harder. Increasing the swing speed may get you more depth
but it may also increase your number of errors. Power does
play a big part in todays game but there is a time and place
for it.
If you are wanting to add some depth to your shots
to get your opponent on the defensive, try the same shot with
a little more net clearance. Pick a window above the net and
try to hit your groundies through it - maybe 4 to 7 feet
depending on the pace and spin you have on the ball. Many
times in lessons when I suggest to a student to hit the ball
deeper, the player tries to hit harder. With a lower
backswing and higher follow through we get the same result
without the tendency to force an error. If your opponent is
at the baseline and not looking to crunch the high volley,
there is probably no reason for a ball to barely clear the
net unless you are trying to purposely hit a short ball.
You might find that your normal shot just with a
little added height can really give your opponents fits. So
remember to try to hit the ball higher rather than harder and
see if you don't get that extra punch your game has been
missing!
