Why the Serve Feels So Hard (and How to Start Fixing It)

Let’s face it — if we counted the number of serves you’ve hit compared to groundstrokes, groundstrokes would win by a long way. The same is true when you compare forehands to backhands — the forehand usually comes out on top.

As humans, we tend to shy away from failure. We’d much rather keep doing what we’re already good at. I see this every day on court.

I had an adult session this morning where I asked players to look at the incoming ball and read the intention of the player on the other side of the net — was it topspin, slice, or a combination? They struggled, and they told me straight away.

That struggle is important.

I believe many of us are scared of failure and forget that mistakes are something to embrace. A mistake gives us information. It allows us to repeat the action, or tweak something small, and work towards a better shot in the future.

The same can be said for the serve.

In isolation, the serve can feel frustrating and, let’s be honest, not that interesting. But when we break it down into small, manageable chunks, progress suddenly becomes possible.

Below are three things you can work on immediately that can have a positive impact on your serve.

1. Ritual

Before we change anything technical, start with your routine.

Ask yourself:

• Do you visualise what you want the serve to do before you start the motion?

• Do you breathe in before the toss and out as you swing?

• Do you bounce the ball a consistent number of times?

A simple, repeatable ritual helps calm the mind and gives the serve structure.

Court area to relax and calm your thoughts, zone 2 prepare and think about what you would like to do tactically, zone 3, go zone, go and do it!

2. Foundation (Your Set-Up)

Your serve set-up is crucial and often overlooked.

Most players set up sideways, and that’s absolutely fine. However, if you’re looking for more effortless power and balance, it’s worth experimenting with small adjustments to your stance and posture.

Sometimes the biggest gains come from what happens before the swing.

3. Ball Toss

Many club players believe the ball toss needs to be perfectly straight up and down. I invite you to look again.

In reality, the toss often moves slightly from out to in and finishes above your head. This allows for better timing, balance, and a more natural swing path.

These three areas can lead to noticeable improvements in a relatively short space of time. They aren’t magical fixes, and they won’t make your serve perfect overnight — but if you manage your expectations and put the work in, you will make progress.

Good luck, and let us know how you get on by commenting below or on our social pages. We’d love to hear how these changes work for you.

www.live4tennis.co.uk

#TennisForAdults

#TennisReturners

#InclusiveTennis