The tennis drill book-2e

1. EASTERN GRIP TECHNIQUE
Objective
To learn and practice using the technique for the Eastern grip, which is the most
comfortable, versatile grip for all ages and ability levels.
Description
The Eastern grip is the standard basic grip. It is good for beginners because it is
the most comfortable grip to adapt to when starting out. In addition, players can
use it with forehands, backhands, serves, and volleys without having to worry
about a grip change. The Eastern grip is also known as the handshake grip; it
is the grip most players use when picking up a racket for the first time. Players
should test the grip by turning the racket so that the racket face is sideways
to the net, not facedown to the court. When they grip the racket handle, they
should do so as though they were shaking the hand of an old friend. Before
long, the Eastern grip will become an old friend on the court!
Execution
Players hold the racket out in front in
the left hand (or in the right hand if
left-handed) and rotate the racket so
that the face (strings) of the racket is
perpendicular to the ground. They place
the palm of the free hand flat on the face
of the racket and move the palm toward
the body, down the shaft of the racket
until it hits the end of the handle (butt).
Players wrap the fingers around the grip
and spread the fingers slightly apart. The
thumb and forefinger should lie almost
directly on the top of the grip, forming a
V that points toward the right shoulder
(toward the left shoulder if left-handed).
The thumb should lie across the top of the
grip. Players should practice the Eastern
grip technique not only with forehands
and backhands but also with serves and
volleys.
6 The Tennis Drill Book