🤖Tennis Ball Machine Drills

How to do it

1. Start slow and central. Set a medium speed, little spin and a feed every three to four seconds, aimed at the middle of the court.
2. Groove one stroke. Hit ten to fifteen balls with one stroke and one target, such as crosscourt forehands past the service line.
3. Add a recovery step. After every hit, split step and recover to the center mark so the drill trains movement, not just arm swing.
4. Use oscillation. Turn on side-to-side feeds to practice moving to the ball and hitting on the run.
5. Come forward. Finish with approach shots and volleys: start at the baseline, hit one ball, then move in and volley the next feeds.

Key tips

• Always aim at a target. Cones or a towel in the corner make every ball count.
• Change only one setting at a time so you know what made the drill harder.
• Rest between baskets. Quality drops fast once you are tired and rushing.
• Record a few balls on your phone to check your preparation and contact point.

FAQ

Is a ball machine worth it for tennis?

For players who practice often without a partner, yes. A ball machine gives consistent, repeatable feeds so you can groove a stroke. It works best alongside match play, because it cannot copy the variety of a real opponent.

What speed should I set the ball machine to?

Lower than you think. Start at a speed where you can hit eight out of ten balls to your target with good technique, then raise it slowly.

Can beginners use a ball machine?

Yes. Slow, central feeds are a great way for beginners to get many repetitions. Keep the spin low and the interval long so there is time to prepare.