Whitney Kraft, Director of Tennis at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, is here to answer your questions on the game of tennis in his column on USTA.com called
“Whit’s Tennis Tips". Whether you're looking for that perfect racquet, having a dispute over scoring a match, or just looking to improve your game, all you have to do is
ask Whit.
To: AskWhit@usta.com
Subject: Tournament Breakthrough
My coaches have been telling me that I should be winning tournaments with the talent they think I have. I have only broken through the first round twice and I can never seem to beat opponents that I should be able to beat on a regular basis. Do you have any tips for this problem?Thank You.
Katie To: Katie
Subject: RE: Tournament Breakthrough
Sounds like more match experience is needed, but you may need a pro to watch you play and help determine why you struggle, and how the struggle might differ from one style of opponent to another.
Another option is to play down a level where you can win more matches to help build confidence and your game style. On average, a 2 to 1 ratio of win/loss is a good developmental ratio to help determine which level of tournament is best suited for entry. Also, stage serious practice matches to help build confidence without the pressure /scrutiny of sanctioned events.
Best of luck and enjoy the challenges,
Whitney
To: AskWhit@usta.com
Subject: "tennis instruction must haves"
As an avid golfer, golf has certain instructional "must haves" for players to read or watch before they start playing. Do such "must haves" exist in tennis? if so, what are they and where can one purchase them?
This all came about because I was researching the net and the bookstores to find how to grip the tennis racquet for a two handed backhand. No luck. Any advice?
Thanks
Eric
Subject: RE: "tennis instruction must haves"
Hi Eric and thanks for your question,
Human Kinetics Publishing has an extensive collection of such books and videos. www.humankinetics.com . Might I suggest "World Class Tennis Technique" with authors Dr. Jack Groppel and Dr. Paul Roetert.
Regards,
Whitney
To: AskWhit@usta.com
Subject: Best Exercises
What is the best exercise/s you can perform for tennis, when you can't actually play tennis during the week.
Chris L., Suwanee, GA
To: Chris
Subject: RE: Best Exercises
Hi Chris,
This is an excellent question with many variables. Optimally, you should develop a personalized, tennis specific fitness program, as running into the gym here and there without such a program to use as a basis is very limited in benefits. There are numerous conditioning components such as strength, endurance, flexibility, power, and injury prevention.
If you can develop even a regular twice per week fitness program, I think you will find it easy and productive to add the extra day(s) and "bigger" workout when the opportunity presents itself.
Human Kinetics Publishers; www.humankinetics.com has quite a collection of tennis conditioning books and videos. Also, check the USTA Player Development website which has many great tips: www.playerdevelopment.usta.com .
Good luck,
Whitney