Agility Eye Exercises: Mastering Ball Watching

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Tennis really has its own vibe, mixing up both physical and mental challenges like no other sport. And let me tell you, keeping your eye on the ball is where most of us trip up, no matter if you’re just starting out or touring the world.

Getting your eyes to quickly switch from checking out something in the distance to zeroing in on something close up, all in a split second, is key!

We teach a series of cool exercises, “Agility Eye Exercises”, that’s all about boosting your quickness, reaction skills, and making sure your eyes and hands are in perfect sync. It’s a game-changer for nailing down that ball focus.

Agility Eye Exercises

What’s the Goal?

Up your game in eye-hand coordination, snap your reaction time into shape, and get laser-focused on watching the ball.

What You Need:

– Any small container, like a ball can
– A bunch of tennis balls

Exercises
1. Drop, Swap, and Catch:

– Hold a ball up by your ear with the can in your other hand.
– Drop the ball and quickly catch it with the can before it hits the ground.
– It’s all about those ninja reflexes and keeping your eyes peeled.

2. Bounce Off the Wall:

– Find a comfy spot near a wall.
– Toss a tennis ball against the wall and snag it with the can.
– Mix it up with different speeds and angles to keep things spicy.
– Flip between hands each time to get both sides working hard and take away your dominance.

3. One-Hand Wonder:

– Bounce the ball on the ground and scoop it up with the can, one hand at a time.
– Flip between hands each time to get both sides working hard.

4. Quick Catch:

– Have your partner throw balls at you rapid-fire.
– Catch them with the can and let them go just as fast.
– This one’s like the real deal, matching the pace of an actual game.

Stepping It Up:

– Make it trickier with smaller cans or by stepping further back from, or closer to, the wall.
– Throw in some moves, catching the ball while you’re on the go.
– Spice it up with marked balls – shout out the number or color as you catch them.

Stick with these exercises, particularly prior to play, and you’ll see a major boost in how you track and watch the ball, even when things get fast and furious on the court. Keep at it, and you’ll be acing those shots with your eyes closed (well, not literally).

Tennis Intelligence: It Takes Pyramid Power

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Let’s chat about a common hiccup for many players: focusing too much on the physical part of the game, or as I like to call it, the “Hardware.”

It’s all about coordinating those muscles to make contact with the ball. And sure, just getting your body to cooperate and hit the ball consistently can be a real challenge. Throw in some wind, a change in court surface, or an unpredictable opponent, and things can get frustrating fast. Plus, as we get older, it doesn’t get any easier with our muscles not quite what they used to be.

Our journey into the Hardware side of tennis covers three key skills: keeping your eye on the ball, maintaining balance, and finding your rhythm. The basic Tennis Whisperer program is all about strengthening those core muscles to not only boost these skills but also to keep injuries at bay. For instance, truly seeing the ball, rather than just watching it, can make a huge difference in your game’s consistency, no matter your age or how long you’ve been playing tennis. And the best part? These foundational skills can be picked up or polished at any stage of life.

But, let’s not forget, tennis isn’t just about the physical. The “Software” – your brain’s perception, action, and decision-making – plays a massive role too. Sometimes, it’s your smarts that can give you the edge over someone who might be faster, stronger, or even younger. And yes, every now and then, it’s what helps you snag that win against the seemingly unbeatable hitter.

Linking your brain (“Software”) to your body (“Hardware”) is your neural system, serving as the essential bridge between the two.

Think of the Software as a pyramid. At its base, it’s about being hyper-aware of your side of the court – knowing where to stand when returning a serve or covering the net, which can change based on your opponent and the conditions. For instance, against a powerhouse player, you might stand further back to give yourself more time and to ensure you’re moving forward into your shots for better balance. Just look at Nadal; his tactic of playing from way behind the baseline helps him maintain balance by moving forward into each shot.

Moving up the pyramid, your position on the court, especially in doubles, can significantly affect your ability to stay in the point. Standing in the right spot means you’re more likely to get a chance to hit the ball, keeping you in the game.

Higher up, we start focusing on the opponent’s Hardware – their weaknesses, how they return the ball, their comfort with volleys or overheads, and their movement. What you picked up during the warm-up (without trying to win it, of course) can offer valuable insights.

Even higher, we delve into the opponent’s Software – figuring out how to exploit their limitations, observing their court position, and adjusting your strategy accordingly. It’s all about noticing patterns, like if they’re prone to missing serves under pressure, and then tweaking your game to take advantage.

At the very top of the pyramid, back on your side of the court, it’s about your decision-making during the match. It’s rare to change your Hardware mid-game, but adjusting your strategy to unsettle your opponent can make all the difference. Starting each point from the right position, with a clear mind, can set you up for success.

Tennis is a fantastic sport, and you can enjoy it so much more by bringing your full game – Hardware and Software – to the court. And who knows, maybe that’ll lead to a few more victories too.

Keep swinging, and remember, the game’s as much about the mind as it is about the body. Happy playing!

© Rob Muir, USPTA
Tennis Whisperer

Psychology Strategy: Art of the Start Published.

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“Art of the Start” is all about transforming those sluggish match beginnings into something you can really work with.

It’s kind of like realizing that starting a match isn’t just about hitting balls back and forth from the get-go. It’s more like a fine blend of knowing your body, getting your head in the game, laying down a solid plan, being ready to zig when you might have zagged, and making sure you’re physically up for the challenge.

Think of it this way: getting the beginning of your match just right is an art form in itself. There’s a bit of science behind it (like knowing how to warm up your muscles or planning your moves) and a bit of craft (like feeling the game and being mentally prepped). It’s about seeing those first few games as a golden opportunity to set the tone for everything that follows.

So, here’s the deal: let’s start looking at the kickoff of your matches as more than just a formality. It’s your chance to grab the upper hand and show what you’re all about, right from the word ‘go.’ Let’s dive into making those starts something special that can really elevate your game. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!

Want to know more? Here’s the link to get you there.

 

 

Doubles: St. Andrew’s Net Strategy

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Ready to jazz up your doubles game? Then adopt the “St. Andrews Cross” strategy. It’s a great way to add some spice to your doubles play and really keep your opponents on their toes. Plus, it’s a whole lot of fun!

Here’s the link.

Want to know how to neutralize St. Andrews.  The key to successfully countering this formation is flexibility, communication with your partner, and the ability to quickly adapt to the dynamics of the game.

Here’s the link.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tool Box Page

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Our concept of a “tennis toolbox” refers to the variety and range of shots a player has practiced, developed and can reliably execute during matches when under pressure.

Like a handyman’s toolbox equipped with different tools for specific tasks, a player’s toolbox contains different shots tailored for various situations on the court. This concept is crucial for competitive play, as it enables players to adapt their game to different opponents, court surfaces, and match conditions.

Click on the link to read more at our Tennis Tool Box page.

 

 

 

 

 

Tennis Glossary: Lingo

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Just like any profession, tennis has its own specialized jargon and we do too!

We’ve developed our unique lingo to effectively convey and clarify complex concepts, making it simpler for others to grasp our teaching methods. Plus, we aim to inject some fun and enjoyment into the process along the way.

We’ve updated our Tennis Glossary page to include our own Lingo which explains the logic behind the jargon we use in teaching.

 

 

Tennis Strategies Updated

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We’ve updated our Tennis Strategies page with the first in a series of Singles and Psychology strategies.

The Tennis Strategies page outlines the fundamental tennis singles, doubles and psychological strategies.

The page is still under construction until we complete explanations for each strategy in the future.

 

Game Changer: Lift and Carry develops control, versatility and confidence.

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In yesterday’s Sunday session, it was reported Axel expressed her frustration for our “lift and carry” warm up drill.

So let’s dive a bit deeper into the WHY of our “lift and carry” technique, and why it’s CRITICAL to developing your game.

And combining various spins based on the ball’s height with “lift and carry” isn’t just smart; it’s a game-changer that adds more tools to your tool box, making you an even more formidable and strategic player.

Here’s how to develop your game with this nuanced approach:

1. Topspin Triumphs Above the Waist: When the ball is at or above waist height, unleash the power of topspin. This is your chance to create high-flying, deep shots that challenge your opponent and open up the court. It’s about using the height to your advantage, adding that extra spin that makes the ball dive into the court, pushing your opponent back and setting you up for the next shot.

2. Slice to Surprise Below the Waist: When the ball drops below waist height, that’s your cue to switch gears to a slice shot. This contrasting approach brings variety and unpredictability to your game. A well-executed deep slice keeps the ball low, forcing your opponent to adjust and often leading to awkward returns that you can attack! Plus, it’s a great way to mix up the pace, playing styles and keep your rival guessing.

Adding these various spins to “lift and carry” enhances your play in several ways:

– Enhanced Ball Control: Each type of spin requires precise racket head speed, angle, and timing. By becoming proficient in both, you refine your touch and control, allowing for more nuanced play and strategic placements.

– Tactical Versatility: Incorporating these strategies into your game plan adds more tools to your tool box. Whether you’re setting up a point with a deep topspin, playing a drop shot or making a net approach with a slice, you have more tools to construct points in your favor. It’s also particularly effective when changing court surfaces, from hard court to clay for example and developing a singles game.

– Builds Confidence on Court: Knowing when to use topspin or slice gives you a playbook for every situation. This confidence allows you to take control, whether you’re dictating the pace with a topspin drive or disrupting your opponent’s rhythm with a stealthy slice.

– Strategic Depth: This approach isn’t just about banging the ball; it’s about crafting points with purpose. By choosing the right spin for the right height, you’re thinking one step ahead, making it tougher for your opponent to predict your next move.

– Adaptability: Different situations call for different shots. By mastering both topspin and slice based on the ball’s height, you become a more adaptable player, capable of thriving in any scenario the match throws at you.

By blending “lift and carry” with the strategic use of various spins based on the ball’s height, you’re not just playing tennis; you’re playing smart tennis.

Be patient! Practice, practice, practice this approach, and watch as your game grows in complexity, making you a more complete, competitive, and unpredictable player on the court. Make every shot count and elevate your game to new heights!

Learn “lift and carry” to add more tools to your tool box.

Good luck,
Tennis Whisperer’24

 

 

 

 

Mastering Cross-Dominance

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The Tennis Whisperer program’s primary goal is to help you play better using the skills you already have. In this message, we focus on overcoming your natural dominance—particularly in footwork.

From birth, we are neurologically predisposed to favor either the right or left side, often leading us to rely on one dominant hand and sometimes one eye. When learning tennis, initial coaching often emphasizes this natural dominance, further ingraining these preferences.

What many don’t realize is that you can be right-handed but have a dominant left foot or left eye, a phenomenon known as “cross-dominance.”

For example, right-handed, left-eyed players often find forehands easier because the dominant eye remains in sight of the ball. Backhands, however, can be challenging, as players may struggle to maintain the ideal stance while keeping the ball in view. The solution? An open stance can help neutralize the eye dominance, allowing for more balanced play.

While strength training can develop your non dominant side, improving balance requires more than muscle alone. Coordination among your eyes, hands, and feet is essential for consistent performance on the court.

Consider the return of serve. Moving toward the ball from a standing start while maintaining balance relies heavily on foot dominance, which affects stance, stroke, and footwork.

In our short video, we demonstrate techniques to “balance out” foot dominance by building new neural pathways. Notice how our model, Pamela, uses a crossover step to trap the ball on either side. Practicing with a partner is ideal, but a wall can work well if you’re training solo.

Start slowly, and be patient with yourself—it takes time to rewire your neural pathways, especially if you’ve played for many years.

The good news? You can teach an experienced player new tricks. So, enjoy the learning process and have fun as you expand your skills!

The Tennis Whisperer

https://youtu.be/c6GGXi-Ubd4
Whisperer Basic Crossover Step Exercise

Medvedev: Mind over Matter

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Russian Daniil Medvedev recovered from two sets down to outlast  Zverev, 5-7 3-6 7-6 7-5 6-3 in a gruelling semi-final and join Sinner in Sunday’s final.

“I was a little bit lost,” Medvedev admitted to Jim Courier when they were finally done, “but during the third set I started saying to myself that if I lose this match, I just want to be proud of myself. I want to fight until the end, fight for every point, and if I lose, I lose. And I managed to win, so I’m very proud.”

Medvedev has been sweating it out there for more than 20 hours, lost eight sets and twice recovered from two sets down. No-one has done that at the Australian Open since Pete Sampras in 1995. Small wonder Medvedev looked bedraggled when he was done. Then again, he always looks that way.

Quirky as ever, but less irascible, Medvedev at last has won fans and favour in this tournament. It’s been by design. He said he had decided between seasons to make a concerted effort to avoid aggravation – from opponents and crowds – and channel all his powers into his tennis.

“I want to play tennis. I want to be proud of myself. I want to fight. So could this help me win all of these matches? Possibly, yes. But I also don’t want to say yes one month ago I decided this and then suddenly I’m winning all these matches. Life is not that easy.

The first set could have been a chapter from Sun Tzu’s The Art Of War. Having played 18 times previously, it was as though they knew each other’s game so well that neither could surprise each other strategically. It made for an intriguing deadlock.

Medvedev used his patent return-of-serve tactic, standing so far behind the baseline that he was not so much receiving as fetching. In a manner, it worked.

In the second set, Zverev, though an inconsistent net player, decided to exploit all the space Medvedev was giving him by advancing on the net more often. It worked; two more breaks sped him to a 2-0 lead. Ordinarily, you might have expected Medvedev to have a Plan B up his own sleeve. Perhaps he did, but he was serving too poorly for it to matter. In the first two sets, Zverev broke him five times.

Back against the wall, Medvedev moved up the court, trying to crowd Zverev’s serve, doubling his few net approaches and retrieving spectacularly several times. It worked. At these closer quarters, Medvedev’s smarts told, though Zverev stayed with him to the tie-breaker.

Bit by bit, this grew into a saga. In the fourth set, Medvedev fashioned one break point with a perfect stop volley, another two points later with a pinpoint lob. Either would have led to him serving out the set.

But Zverev saved both with big serves, and then Medvedev appeared to have self-immolated when a double fault in the tie-breaker delivered Zverev’s seeming victory on a platter. But he didn’t take it, and in a cruel twist, Medvedev horribly framed a return of serve, only for it to plop over the net to send the match into a fifth set.

Five games into the fifth set, the match reached its last pass when a tiring Zverev netted a volley to fall two break points down. Sorely knowing the implications, the German belted his racquet into the offending net. Duly, he lost the game, and with it the last of his earlier momentum, and Medvedev won the mental game! Extraordinarily, having lost his serve five times in the first two sets, he was not broken again for the match.

“I would say this court is not my best court in terms of my performance and my actual self-esteem,” he said to Courier. “That’s why many times I had to dig deep during this tournament. So I’m gonna be the happiest man on the planet (if I win). But for this I need to play pretty well and win three sets on Sunday.”

Source: SMH

 

 

Will Sinner Prevail Against Joker’s Tactical Shifts?

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Read more

How to Find a Way to Win

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Mirra Andreeva somehow rallied from a 1-5 final-set deficit on Friday to eliminate Frenchwoman Diane Parry. Along the way, Andreeva tossed her racquet in disgust, and bit so hard into her left arm that she left a mark.
‘‘ At 5-1 , I don’t know, I just tried to win at least one more game to not go 6-1 , 1-6 , 6-1 . What is that score?’’ Andreeva said. ‘‘ I just tried to win one more game to at least be 6-2 in the third.
Then [at] 5-2 , she has match points. I’m going to the net. I’m thinking, ‘Am I crazy?’. I’m going to the net on match point. But then she missed a ball.
The adrenaline [kicked in], the desire, the feeling that I want to win … I feel like when you’re coming back from this score, it’s kind of easy on a mental side for you.
It’s easier than for your opponent because you’re on the run, you have all the adrenaline. That’s what I had today.’’
Now, to explain Andreeva’s bemusement towards being at the net at such a crucial moment. She ventured to that unfamiliar territory only nine times!
Source SMH 21Jan25
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Please excuse any typos as this was sent from my iPhone