Single Stroke Challenge

This warm-up drill helps players groove specific strokes by requiring them to rally using only one shot at a time. By focusing exclusively on forehands or backhands, players improve repetition, timing, and control without switching grips or patterns. It also adds a fun challenge when players progress to point play, creating both practice discipline and competitive excitement.

Setup

• Two players positioned on opposite baselines (or in mini-court for beginners)
• Basket of balls for underhand feeds to start points
• Rackets and standard tennis balls

Rules & Objectives

• Assign both players to use only one shot (e.g., forehand only)
• Rally for 2–3 minutes, hitting exclusively forehands
• Optionally, play a short set (first to 7 points) using only forehands
• Repeat the drill using only backhands
• Switch to crosscourt play, where both players are restricted to the same stroke
• Continue rallying or point play with the one-shot restriction
• Allow replay of points if interrupted by stray balls

Repetition

• Alternate between forehand-only and backhand-only sets
• Begin in the mini-court for control, then progress to baseline rallies
• Introduce competitive scoring (sets to 7) while maintaining the one-shot restriction
• Later, mix in variations such as inside-out forehands or backhand slices

Coaching Points

• Reinforces stroke mechanics through high repetition
• Builds consistency and control by eliminating shot variation
• Encourages early preparation and good footwork
• Adds a competitive but focused warm-up before open play

Drill Tutorial