How To Hold a Tennis Racket
If you’re new to tennis, you may be wondering how to properly hold a tennis racket. The grip you use can have a big impact on your swing and overall performance on the court. In this article, we’ll go over the different types of grips and provide step-by-step instructions on how to hold a tennis racket.
First, let’s go over the two main types of grips: the Eastern grip and the Western grip.
The Eastern grip is the most common grip used by beginners and is also known as the “shake hands” grip. To use this grip, simply hold the racket with your dominant hand and place your index finger so that it’s parallel to the top of the racket. Your thumb should be on the bottom of the handle, creating a V shape between your thumb and index finger. This grip provides good control and is easy to use for beginners.
The Western grip is used more commonly by advanced players and provides more topspin on your shots. To use this grip, start with the Eastern grip and then move your hand slightly to the right (if you’re right-handed). This will cause your index finger to move to the third bevel of the racket. Your thumb should still be on the bottom of the handle, creating a more extreme V shape. This grip takes some getting used to but can provide more power and spin on your shots.
Now that you know the different types of grips, let’s go over the steps to holding a tennis racket:
- Stand facing the net with your dominant hand on the racket handle.
- Place your index finger on the top of the racket and your thumb on the bottom, creating a V shape.
- Adjust your grip to the Eastern or Western grip depending on your preference and skill level.
- Make sure you’re holding the racket loosely and not squeezing too tightly.
- Check that your grip is not too high up the handle or too low on the strings.
- Practice swinging your racket to get comfortable with your grip.
In summary, holding a tennis racket is a crucial part of playing the game. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, choosing the right grip can impact your performance. Remember to practice your grip and find what works best for you. By following these steps, you’ll be on your way to a more successful game on the court.
