What is pronation on the serve?

The natural inward rotation of the forearm as the racquet swings up to the ball, so the palm turns away from you after contact. It is what squares the racquet face and adds racquet-head speed.

Should my first serve be flat?

A flat or mostly flat first serve is the most common choice because it is the fastest. Many strong players add a little spin even to their first serve to make it more consistent.

How to Serve Faster and Flatter

5 video lessons

Easy power from the legs, a loose arm and pronation, not muscle.

Quick answer & tips ▾

Serve speed comes from a chain of movements, not from arm strength. The legs push up, the hips and shoulders rotate, and a relaxed arm whips the racquet through contact while the forearm rotates (pronation). Tight muscles slow that whip down.

A flat serve hits through the back of the ball with little spin, so it is the fastest serve but has the least margin. Most players use it as a first serve and rely on spin for the second.

Key tips

Use a continental grip; a forehand grip blocks pronation and caps your speed.
Hold the racquet loosely, around 3 or 4 on a scale of 10.
Bend your knees and drive up into the ball rather than leaning forward.
Reach up to contact the ball high and slightly in front of you.

FAQ

What is pronation on the serve?: The natural inward rotation of the forearm as the racquet swings up to the ball, so the palm turns away from you after contact. It is what squares the racquet face and adds racquet-head speed.
Should my first serve be flat?: A flat or mostly flat first serve is the most common choice because it is the fastest. Many strong players add a little spin even to their first serve to make it more consistent.