The tennis drill book-2e

7. CLOSED-STANCE TECHNIQUE
Objective
To learn the technique for the closed stance and to identify the pros and cons
of using this stance for the backhand or forehand groundstroke.
Description
The closed stance is the settled-upon stance when chasing down a ball on a full
run for either the backhand or forehand. Players use this stance only when forced
wide for a shot or when on the run and unable to set up for quick recovery.
Execution
Players should not use this stance unless absolutely necessary. The stance closes
out the hips, preventing hip rotation into the stroke and precluding transfer
of weight toward the targeted hitting area. This action forces players to take
additional recovery steps before they can rotate their shoulders and hips into
the shot. The stance also limits control of shots, reduces shot options and power,
and slows recovery time significantly.
Tips
If players find themselves in a closed stance when returning a forehand or backhand,
they should try hitting a lob to help recover and get back into position for
the next shot. To avoid being caught off balance, which may lead to using the
closed stance, players must remember to breathe. Breathing relaxes the entire
body, permitting better and quicker footwork, more racket head speed through
contact, and more pace and depth on shots. Breathing during and between
points is the best way to combat the nerves all players feel when under pressure.
Players should exhale as they begin moving the racket forward to strike
the ball, and continue exhaling all the way through the shot.
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14 The Tennis Drill Book