What is lag on the forehand?

The moment when the racquet head trails behind your hand as you start the forward swing, because your wrist and arm are relaxed. When it releases, the racquet accelerates sharply into the ball.

Why do I lose control when I hit harder?

Usually the arm tightens and takes over from the body, or contact drifts late. Keep the swing relaxed, rotate through the shot and add more topspin as you add pace.

How to Get More Power on Your Forehand

7 video lessons

Rotation, lag and a loose arm: power without swinging harder.

Quick answer & tips ▾

Forehand power comes from rotation and timing, not from muscling the ball. Load on your outside leg, turn your hips and shoulders into the shot, and let a relaxed arm and wrist lag behind so the racquet whips through contact.

Clean contact out in front matters as much as swing speed. A well-timed, relaxed swing usually produces more pace than a tense, all-out one, and it keeps the ball in the court.

Key tips

Use your legs and hips; the arm should be the last link, not the first.
Keep the grip loose until just before contact.
Make contact in front and finish the swing fully.
Add topspin as you add speed so the ball still lands in.

FAQ

What is lag on the forehand?: The moment when the racquet head trails behind your hand as you start the forward swing, because your wrist and arm are relaxed. When it releases, the racquet accelerates sharply into the ball.
Why do I lose control when I hit harder?: Usually the arm tightens and takes over from the body, or contact drifts late. Keep the swing relaxed, rotate through the shot and add more topspin as you add pace.