Taking the ball early on the rise is one of the highest-leverage skills in tennis — and one of the least practiced at the recreational level. Players who master this skill take time away from their opponents, cut off angles and dictate play from inside the baseline. This guide covers the mindset, benefits, footwork fundamentals […]
Free Tennis & Pickleball Lessons
Free tennis and pickleball guides created by the coaching staff at Reno Tennis Center. Browse by topic below.
Tennis Return of Serve: Complete Technique Guide
The tennis return of serve is the second most important shot in the game — and the most neglected in practice. You hit it in half of every game you play, yet most players spend very little time developing it deliberately. This guide covers positioning, split step timing, preparation, setup and swing mechanics — written […]
Tennis Overhead Smash & Scissor-Kick Guide
The tennis overhead smash is the most explosive shot in the game — and one of the most demoralizing for your opponent when executed well. At the net, it is your primary weapon against lobs. This guide covers both the standard overhead smash and the advanced scissor-kick overhead — grip, preparation, footwork and execution — […]
Tennis Serve Technique & Fundamentals Guide
The tennis serve technique is the most important stroke in the game — and the only shot where you have complete control. No opponent, no reaction required. Yet it remains the most technically complex stroke to master. This guide covers every fundamental: grip, ball toss, service motion and the tube sock drill — written by […]
How to Hit an Effective Tennis Approach Shot
The tennis approach shot is the bridge between baseline play and net dominance. Executed correctly, it puts your opponent under immediate pressure and shortens the point in your favor. This guide covers footwork, spacing, stroke mechanics and tactical options — written by Randy Reynolds, certified tennis instructor and director of Tennis Nation at Reno Tennis […]
Tennis Backhand Slice: 5-Step Complete Guide
The tennis backhand slice is one of the most versatile and underutilized shots in the game. When executed correctly, it skids low through the court, disrupts your opponent’s rhythm and buys critical recovery time. This guide breaks down the backhand slice in 5 clear steps — from the pivot and shoulder turn to the follow […]
Two-Handed Backhand Groundstroke: Complete Guide
The two-handed backhand groundstroke is one of the most reliable and powerful shots in modern tennis. Used by the majority of professional players today, it provides stability, topspin and control — especially on high balls. This guide covers every phase: unit turn, backswing, weight transfer, contact point and follow through — written by Randy Reynolds, […]
Tennis Backhand Groundstroke Ultimate Guide
The tennis backhand groundstroke is one of the most versatile shots in tennis — and one of the most misunderstood. Whether you hit with one hand, two hands or a slice, the foundation is the same: proper grip, a well-timed split step and a loaded setup that allows your hips and shoulders to drive through […]