Produce Some POP

Body rotation, not just stepping into your shot as most recreational players think, is the most dynamic component of producing a powerful forehand or two-handed backhand groundstroke in tennis.

The classic error I see time after time is a player moving to a ball reasonably well prepared, arriving in plenty of time to execute a good stroke, then stepping (pointing their toes) toward the sideline with the foot nearest the net as they begin the swing into the ball.

That fundamental misunderstanding of good footwork severely limits the hips and shoulders from rotating toward the intended target zone.

It in effect neutralizes the player from using either linear (weight shift) or angular momentum (body rotation) to propel their shot as well as causing directional error and potential injury.

Watch a skilled golfer almost turn their back to their target on the takeaway then explosively rotate toward that target, finishing with their belt buckle facing the intended flight line.

Baseball batters step into the pitch, then stiffen the front leg and produce whip by rotating and turning their belt buckle toward centerfield as they follow through.

A boxer doesn't deliver a knockout punch by stepping toward the opponent and delivering a jab, but by rotating explosively from a wide stable base while delivering an uppercut or a cross/hook.

If your groundies lack the punch that your effort level should seemingly produce, look to your footwork as the source of the problem.

The ability to turn your tummy toward your target is the true test of good footwork.

If you are looking to add POP to your forehand or two-handed backhand body rotation is the key to success!