Kwong Young, USPTA Tennis Professional, IronOaks Tennis Club
When it comes to playing your best tennis, getting a good grip on your game means more than how you hold your racket.
In fact, there are three important grips every player should keep in mind: your hand grip, the grip beneath your feet and the grip on your racket handle. Paying attention to all three can help improve your performance, control and confidence on the court.
1. Get a Handle on Your Hand Grip
Different racket grips suit different strokes and styles of play.
Eastern Grip: Well-suited for hitting balls around waist height or making contact farther out in front.
Semi-Western Grip: Often used for balls between waist and shoulder height and is popular with players who generate topspin.
Western Grip: An extreme grip typically associated with aggressive play, heavy topspin and very fast racket-head speed. It generally isn’t recommended for most recreational players.
Continental Grip: The versatile workhorse of tennis grips. It’s commonly used for serves, volleys, overheads and slice shots.
Understanding which grip to use—and when—can make a noticeable difference in your shot-making.
2. Don’t Lose Your Footing
Your tennis shoes have a grip, too.
Over time, the soles wear down and lose traction, making it more difficult to stop, start and change direction safely and effectively.
Think of your tennis shoes like the tires on your car. Worn tires don’t provide the same stopping and cornering ability as a fresh set. Likewise, worn tennis shoes may not give you the traction you need for quick movements around the court.
Take an occasional look at the bottoms of your shoes. If the tread is noticeably worn or the shoes feel slippery on the court, it may be time for a new pair.
3. Check Your Racket Grip
Finally, take a good look—and feel—at the grip on your racket handle.
Has it become smooth, worn or less tacky? If so, consider replacing the original grip or adding an overgrip, depending on your preference.
A fresh, tackier grip can help keep the racket more secure in your hand and reduce unwanted movement or slipping when you strike the ball. That can translate into better control and more confidence when you swing.
The takeaway? Before your next match, get a grip—on your racket, your shoes and your game. A little attention to all three can help you feel more secure from the first serve to match point.
The IronOaks Tennis Club shares Coach Kwong’s Tip of the Month to help members improve their skills, build confidence, and enjoy the game at every level.