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Strokemaster
STROKE MASTER
An adaptable and aggressive backhand is among the weapons that's helped take Simona Halep to a Grand Slam final and world No.2. Stroke Master explains how she executes it so well.
Elbows at a comfortable distance from the body allowing for adequate swinging room.
What do you see? Head position and eye gaze do not appear fixated on the contact point.
Neither shoulders or hips have opened completely towards the net indicating appropriate set-up and sequencing.
Body weight has transferred forward and is now completely supported on the front leg.
Wide base of support and low centre of gravity is maintained throughout the forward swing.
Contact point is in front of centre of gravity signally appropriate preparation and timing.
Racquet is perfectly parallel to the net on contact; the ball is met with the full face of the racquet.
Front foot is angled at 45 degrees helping to limit any ‘blocking’ of momentum through contact.
Callum Beale, a former professional who achieved singles and doubles rankings on the ATP tour, is Tennis Australia’s Coach and Talent Development Manager in NSW. He has a Bachelor of Applied Science, Human Movement.
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JULY 2015 AUSTRALIAN TENNIS MAGAZINE
31