Measuring Speed and Spin
in Your Game

By John Yandell

Dominic Thiem: averaging about 3200rpms on his forehand.

In the last issue we presented a comprehensive table on the levels of spin for groundstrokes  in pro tennis—as well as some averages on ball speed. (Click Here.)  This was all based on data recorded by shot spot.

One question I got repeatedly after that article was how does this apply to my game?  How do I calculate my own speed and spin levels?

The answer is you don't need shot spot.  Previously we published an article on how to use a pocket radar gun to measure ball speed and how improved technique can increase shot velocity. (Click Here.)

And you don't need shot spot for spin measurements either.  All you need is a compact high speed camera or a smart phone with a super slow motion setting that films at 240frames a second and also has a high speed shutter. 

 

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John Yandell is widely acknowledged as one of the leading videographers and students of the modern game of professional tennis. His high speed filming for Advanced Tennis and Tennisplayer have provided new visual resources that have changed the way the game is studied and understood by both players and coaches. He has done personal video analysis for hundreds of high level competitive players, including Justine Henin-Hardenne, Taylor Dent and John McEnroe, among others.

In addition to his role as Editor of Tennisplayer he is the author of the critically acclaimed book Visual Tennis. The John Yandell Tennis School is located in San Francisco, California.

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