Balance Checkpoints: The Forehand

Welby Van Horn on the meaning of the Checkpoints. Click Photo.

In the last article we talked about the general principles of balance on the groundstrokes. (Click Here.) Now we’ll present
the balance checkpoints in greater detail for each groundstroke individually. We’ll start with the forehand in this
article, then go on to the two-handed and the one-handed backhand in the future.

These checkpoints form the base for developing the strokes. The checkpoints will help you solve the jigsaw
puzzle we call the game of tennis. For this reason, it is critical to study and memorize the checkpoints–not just read the
article about them. This mean being able to describe the checkpoints accurately in words, and demonstrate them with
physical precision.

Mastery of the checkpoints leads to balance on the forehand.

If you cannot verbalize the checkpoints and replicate them accurately when you swing without the ball, then
you have not really learned them. It will be impossible to execute them in play. You will not have the proper
foundation, and will be very unlikely to develop good balance.

To master the checkpoints physically, it is very important to practice them in front of a mirror and to use slow…