One of the most overlooked yet essential elements of a strong tennis game is shoulder rotation. Whether you’re hitting a forehand, backhand, or serve, proper shoulder movement is the key to unlocking effortless power, improved accuracy, and a fluid stroke.
WHAT IS SHOULDER ROTATION?
Simply put, shoulder rotation refers to the turning of your upper body during a stroke. This movement allows you to store energy on the backswing and then release it efficiently through the ball. Without proper rotation, your shots rely too much on your arm, leading to inconsistent contact and potential injuries.
HOW TO USE SHOULDER ROTATION IN YOUR GAME
1. Forehand: Start by turning your shoulders sideways as you prepare to hit. This coiling action stores energy. As you swing forward, let your shoulders uncoil naturally leading the racket through the ball. 2. Backhand (One-handed and Two- handed): The backhand requires full shoulder turn to generate power. For a one-handed backhand, think about rotating your hitting shoulder under your chin. For a two-handed backhand, both shoulders should turn as if preparing to hit a left-handed forehand (for right-handed players). 3. Serve: Shoulder rotation is crucial in the serve. As you toss, coil your shoulders to create separation between your lower and upper body. When you uncoil, your shoulders help generate racquet head speed, adding power to your serve without excessive effort.
THE BENEFITS OF SHOULDER ROTATION
• More Power – By engaging your torso you reduce reliance on your arm and gain effortless racquet acceleration. • Better Control – A fluid rotation keeps your stroke compact and repeatable, leading to more precise ball striking and placement. • Reduced Injury Risk – Without proper rotation your arm and wrist take on unnecessary strain, increasing the risk of tennis elbow and shoulder injuries. • Improved Court Coverage – Rotation isn’t just for hitting. Proper shoulder engagement also helps with balance and movement, allowing you to recover quickly after shots.
The next time you are on the court, focus on turning your shoulders early and letting them drive your stroke.
See you on the courts!
