If you’re attacking a short ball to your right (or to your left if you’re left handed), there’s a great way to both hit a forceful inside-out approach shot and keep your momentum going forward toward the net, rather than toward the doubles alley, which will leave you out of position. It’s called the front-foot hop, and here’s how it works. ...
1
Track the ball, get into position, and start with your weight on your back foot. This shot requires a traditional neutral-stance forehand, rather than the now-commonplace open-stance forehand. Since you’ll be stepping in and landing on your front foot before you hit, be sure to keep the ball well out in front of you.
2
Step into the shot and rotate your shoulders and hips as you would on an open-stance forehand. Your shoulders should be level and your center of gravity should remain over your midsection. Don’t lunge forward.
3
As you make contact, you’ll naturally push off your front foot and lift off the ground. Be sure to have a long swing out toward your target. Don’t pull off the ball too early.
4
To complete the hop step, land on your front foot. This move allows you to maintain excellent balance and keeps you from going too far to your right. Another benefit: It won’t slow you down as you try to position yourself at the net.