Private Lessons: Practice, Practice, and Practice

We have all heard the term “practice makes perfect.” We think we understand what it means. According to the
dictionary “practice” is defined as “repeated exercise” or “habitual action.” In terms of tennis we have all been told we
have to practice to get better, but very few times are we told how to practice, or the amount of practice needed to reach the
goals we set for ourselves.

What are the various ways a player can practice? A player can compete, do controlled drills involving one or
more strokes, work on movement drills to improve speed and stamina, or concentrate on the mental side of the game. All of
these are important aspects in making improvements, but in what combination? How much of each type of training is necessary
to get the greatest potential out of your game and on what schedule?

Crosscourt rally drill – try hitting 5 balls in a row keeping each shot deeper than the opponent’s service line.

First, let me talk about competition. There are numerous ways to compete. Most players think “competition” means league or tournament play, or at least that weekly match at the club you are so desperate to win. Players…