OverheadBeginner
Build the turn, pointing arm and footwork that make overheads reliable.
- Players2
- Time10 min
- EquipmentBasket of balls
Setup: Player stands at the net in the ready position. Feeder stands at the service line and tosses lobs by hand.
- Feeder tosses a lob 2-3 steps behind the player.
- Player turns sideways, lifts the racquet behind the head and points the free hand at the ball.
- Player shuffles back and catches the ball with the free hand above and in front of the head.
- After 10 catches, hit overheads with the same preparation.
Coaching cues
- Turn first, then move
- Point at the ball with your free hand
- Get behind the ball so contact is in front
Common mistakes
- Backpedaling while facing the net
- Lifting the racquet late
Progression: Feeder tosses deeper lobs; player uses a crossover step to move back.
Coach's note: Most framed overheads are footwork problems, not swing problems. The catch makes that obvious.