Tennis grip refers to the way a player holds the racquet. The grip affects the angle of the racquet face relative to the hand, which in turn influences the direction and spin of the ball when it's struck. There are several types of grips that players use to hold the racket, each suited to different types of shots and playing styles. There are several common grips used in tennis:
Eastern Forehand Grip: This grip is commonly used for hitting forehand shots. The base knuckle of the index finger is placed on bevel 3 (for right-handed players) or bevel 9 (for left-handed players) of the racket handle. It provides good control and allows for topspin.
Continental Grip: This grip is often used for serving, volleys, and slice shots. The base knuckle of the index finger rests on bevel 2 (for right-handed players) or bevel 8 (for left-handed players). It allows for versatility in hitting different types of shots.
Semi-Western Forehand Grip: Slightly more extreme than the Eastern grip, this grip is used by many modern players for forehand shots. The base knuckle of the index finger is on bevel 4 (for right-handed players) or bevel 7 (for left-handed players). It facilitates generating topspin and power.
Western Forehand Grip: This grip is the most extreme forehand grip, often used by players who favor heavy topspin shots. The base knuckle of the index finger is on bevel 5 (for right-handed players) or bevel 6 (for left-handed players). It allows for extreme topspin but may sacrifice some control.
Two-Handed Backhand Grip: For players using a two-handed backhand, the dominant hand typically holds the racket with an Eastern or Semi-Western grip, while the non-dominant hand uses an Eastern or Continental grip. This provides stability and power for backhand shots.
One-Handed Backhand Grip: For players using a one-handed backhand, the grip is typically similar to the Eastern or Continental grip used for forehands, though it may vary depending on personal preference. It provides control and allows for slice shots.
These are the main types of grips used in tennis, but players may also adjust their grips slightly based on personal preference and playing style. Experimenting with different grips can help players find what works best for them in various situations on the court.
To learn more about mastering different types of grips in tennis as well as other basics of tennis schedule a tennis lesson with Potomac Tennis Pro.