Do it Tennis Tips: How to hit a ‘tweener
November 25th, 2014 by Do It Tennis
Do it Tennis Tips: How to hit a ‘tweener
Photo: tennis.com
The ‘tweener, also known as a between the legs shot, has been seen from multiple tennis champs as a last attempt to save the point. This trick shot done correctly will excite the crowd and illicit cheering!, But done wrong, this can cost you an unpleasant injury, especially if for male players... Roger Federer has the ‘tweener mastered, and with these Do It Tennis pro tips, you can too
1) Choose your shot wisely: When attempting the ‘tweener, you’ll want to time it just right. It’s most effective when you have overrun the ball or when you have been caught turned around from a high lob. Ensure the tennis ball is over your head and has dropped to about calf level before you make the shot.
2) Racquet position: Due to the limited space between your legs, the tennis racquet handle should be pointed up and the racquet face open at the start of the hit. Come follow through, the tennis racquet face should be facing up and the head of the handle towards the fence.
Photo:fl-tennis.com
2) Timing is everything: The tennis ball needs to be at the perfect level to hit a ‘tweener. The ball should be just off the ground when it makes contact with the sweet spot of the tennis racquet. Too high and you will have to jump or move forward. As seen below, the tennis ball should be about calf level when attempting to hit it.
Photo: crazytennis mom.com
3) Shuffle Step: Shuffle step a few steps before you hit the ball to ensure it’s slightly behind your backside. You also want to step forward while hitting the ball between your legs. A few short steps should do the trick.
4) Flick your wrist: Due to limited mobility at this angle, in order to get the tennis ball to move you will need to flick your wrist in an almost scooping motion. This will help get the tennis ball over the net. DO NOT TO OVER HIT THE BALL. A simple flick of the wrist without a great amount of follow through should be sufficient. Pictured below is an example of how your tennis racquet should look when flicking your wrist.
Photo: pinterest.com
5) Leg lift: If you are having trouble committing to the shot, add a leg lift. Lifting your leg can also help while you are practicing the shot. (Very important for male players to avoid a painful injury.)
Starting out, players may want to practice this shot by hitting from at the side of the body and not in between the legs. Once you have practiced getting the ball over the net a few times with a simple wrist flick, practice with the ball bouncing in between the legs. Progress into practicing the ‘tweener in your rallies, and later, to win a point in a match. For the full mechanics of the shot just watch this collection of Roger Federer ‘tweeners throughout his illustrious career.
