Last week I took a boxing class at my gym. There’s no sparring involved, as it’s designed purely as a workout. As much as I loved to recklessly slug away at the heavy bag, the instructor was more intent on having the class use set combinations of punches. Besides being more physically demanding, using these punching patterns is how a boxer succeeds. If I were to ever actually step into a ring (highly unlikely) my random swinging would undoubtedly leave me horizontal on the canvas.
Playing good tennis is not much different – if there’s no purpose behind your shots, you’re not going to be very successful. Using different combinations can open up the court and put your opponent on the defensive. It also helps you focus and gives you direction during points. Depending on your ability level, you should use patterns that feature your strengths. Here are a few 1-2 combos you might find effective:
Serve out wide – hit into the open court: This is the standard. Drag your opponent off the court with a slice or kick serve and follow it up with a volley or ground stroke into the open court. Remember that you’re not necessarily trying to win the point with the serve, but rather using it as a setup for the next ball, which can be the clincher.
Drop shot – lob: Unlike boxing, using finesse shots in tennis can cause a lot of damage. First draw your opponent into the net with a drop shot. When attempting one, it’s wise to be on or inside the baseline. If your opponent manages to track the ball down, his momentum will most likely pull him close to the net. That’s a great time to throw up a lob. If you can get the ball over your opponent’s head, the running will not only tire him, it will make him feel like a puppet at the end of your string.