Do you want to know how to hold a tennis racket like a pro? It’s actually quite simple, and in this quick guide, we will walk you through the basics. There are three main ways to hold a tennis racket: the continental grip, the eastern forehand grip, and the western forehand grip. Each grip has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to find the one that works best for you. Keep reading for more information on how to hold a tennis racket!
General Grip Tips
Before we get into the specifics of each grip, there are a few general tips that apply to all of them. First, you want to make sure that you’re holding the racket in your non-dominant hand. So if you’re right-handed, you would hold the racket in your left hand. Second, you want to position the racket so that the strings are facing you. This may seem counterintuitive, but it’s actually the best way to get maximum power and control. And lastly, you want to make sure that your grip is firm but not too tight. If you’re holding the racket too tightly, you won’t be able to swing it properly and will likely tire yourself out quickly.
Now that you know the basics, let’s take a closer look at each grip.
Start With Learning the Continental Grip
The continental grip is the most popular grip among professional players. It is named after its creator, Hungarian player Nikola Pilić. This grip allows for a wide range of strokes and is especially effective on serves. The only downside to this grip is that it can be difficult to generate power on your shots.
Next, Master the Eastern Forehand Grip
The eastern forehand grip is often used by beginners or players with less experience. It gives you more control over your shots and is easier to learn than the Continental grip. However, it doesn’t allow for as much power or versatility in your strokes.
Pivot to the Western Forehand Grip
The western forehand grip is similar to the Eastern forehand grip, but with one key difference: the thumb and index finger are wrapped around the racket handle instead of pointing down. This grip gives you more power and spin on your shots, but can be difficult to master.
Want a more in-depth look at different tennis grips? Read A Guide to the Different Types of Tennis Grips.
So, Which Grip Should You Use?
Now that you know the three main ways to hold a tennis racket, it’s time to decide which one is right for you. If you’re just starting out, we recommend trying the Eastern forehand grip. Once you’ve mastered that, you can move on to the Continental grip or the Western forehand grip. Whichever way you choose to hold your racket, make sure you’re comfortable with it and have fun!
We hope this quick guide was helpful in teaching you how to hold a tennis racket like a pro! And if you need help with tennis court construction or maintenance, contact us.