Activity summary
In this activity, players practice lunging and tapping the ball off the bounce to improve their control, footwork, and timing. It’s a great way to build balance and develop better touch around the court and the ability to hit under the ball with an open racket face.
Activity setup
- Each player has a racket and a ball suitable for their skill level.
- Players start in a ready position, facing a target area.
What to do:
- Players drop the ball and lunge towards it, attempting to tap it upwards so it lands in the same spot where it bounced.
- Players alternate between forehand and backhand shots, making sure the ball bounces before tapping it back.
- After each shot, players return to their starting position and lunge on alternating legs for each shot.
Activity video
Watch this video to see the session in action.
Coaching Tips
- Make sure the knuckles are facing the floor for forehand, and the ceiling for backhand.
- Players to rotate forearm rather than change their grip.
- Gently tap the ball using an open racket face to hit under the ball and give it enough height and time in the air to get ready for the next shot.
- Maintain a short, controlled follow-through upwards to keep the ball in control.
Make it easier
- Do the activity standing in place.
- Allow the ball to bounce more than once.
- Allow players to use either side (forehand or backhand) of the racket at any time.
Make it harder
- Mark out an area players can’t go out of and challenge them to do 10 in a row within that area.
- Add in a target on the floor using a flat marker, challenging players to hit it as many times as possible.
Safety
Remember, you can use the STEP framework – Space, Time, Equipment, and People – to adapt any activity, making it easier or more challenging to suit your players.
Always check that there's enough space for everyone to take part safely, and make sure all under-18s are wearing protective goggles during the session.