🧱Tennis Wall Drills

How to do it

1. Pick your distance. Start about two thirds of a court length from the wall so the ball bounces once before you hit it and you have time to set up.
2. Mark a target. Use chalk or tape to mark a line at net height and aim a little above it. That trains the same clearance you need on court.
3. Rally forehands, then backhands. Hit one stroke at a time with full preparation. Count how many in a row you can keep going and try to beat it.
4. Alternate strokes. Once you can rally one side, alternate forehand and backhand to train the turn and recovery between shots.
5. Move in for volleys. Step closer and volley without a bounce, keeping the racquet in front of you with short, firm punches.
6. Finish with control games. Hit to a smaller target or play "two bounces then hit" to slow the pace down and focus on clean contact.

Key tips

• The wall returns the ball faster than a partner, so shorten your backswing rather than rushing your full stroke.
• Keep moving your feet between shots. A wall session should feel like footwork practice as well.
• Stop and reset when technique breaks down. Ten good reps beat fifty sloppy ones.
• Bring several balls so you are not chasing one ball across the park after every miss.

FAQ

Is hitting against a wall good for tennis?

Yes. A wall gives you hundreds of repetitions in a short time and never misses. The main risk is rushing your strokes because the ball comes back quickly, so stand far enough back and keep your swing compact.

How far from the wall should I stand?

Far enough that the ball bounces once and you have time to prepare, usually 25 to 40 feet for groundstrokes. Move much closer for volleys.

How long should a wall session be?

Twenty to thirty minutes of focused hitting is plenty for most players. Short, regular sessions build consistency faster than one long session a week.