As you have most probably heard Oliver is very serious about the technique in order to make you a better player. Here are some pictures of forehand and backhand by the Pro as well as by students
Oliver demonstrating the perfect forehand motion | Oliver demonstrating the perfect backhand motion |
Forehand reminders for right handed players:
* prepare, make a loop or take the racket straight back with strings pointing 90 degrees from the net with the elbow pointing down and the left hand at 1 o’clock.
* move toward the on-coming ball and plant feet parallel with weight on the right (sitting) foot with left shoulder raised. Left foot toe points in direction of the anticipated shot. Weight shifts from right (sitting) leg to left leg. As weight moves forward to left leg, make contact with the ball in front of you. Your head and eyes are looking at the ball and your wrist is in locked firm position. The fleft hand follows the right naturally.
* hit your ball from low to high. Right foot pivots on the toe and remains on the ground throughout the stroke. (transfer of weight)
This should be a smooth process with head and eyes down throughout and avoiding any jerky aspects. Planting of feet, addressing the ball and the follow through are to be practiced in one continuous motion.
student is demonstrating the perfect forehand motion
student practices forehand without the ball