How to Play Tennis - Grip

How to Play Tennis - Choosing the Right Grip

Learning how to play tennis is all about learning the basics. The most basic step is choosing the right tennis grip. I'm going to review the different types of grips and talk about the pros and cons for each. Most beginners when they start learning tennis start out by "chocking" up on the grip of the racket as they think the racket is too long. Using the correct tennis grip from the start, as a newbie, is very important.

Eastern Grip - The eastern can be used by putting your hand flat against the center of the tennis strings and sliding your hand down to the grip. You should look like you're shaking hands with the racket. The eastern grip is popular and it is versatile, meaning that you can use the grip for ground strokes as well volleying. To change to a one-handed backhand eastern grip, simply rotate the grip a quarter turn counter-clockwise. For left handed people, the grip should be turned clockwise.

Continental - The continental grip is half-way between an eastern forehand and backhand grip. This grip is not used as much as it's hard to generate speed and top-spin.

Half-Western - The half western can be used by laying the tennis racket on the ground and simply picking it up. The half-western is used by many tour players and generates a lot of top-spin and power.

Western - The western can be used by grabbing the grip with your knuckles pointing towards the ground. This grip creates even more top-spin than the half-western but lacks in countering low balls.

Choosing the right grip does not seem like an important factor, but using the right grip for your playing style will make a large difference when learning how to play tennis.