Just get it in! Avoid the biggest mistakes beginners make when serving.

Hey partner,

Today we want to talk about something a lot of new tennis players really struggle with - getting their serve in consistently. We’ve all seen it at the courts - new players struggling to even start a point because they keep double faulting. If that sounds like you (or someone you know), worry not and read on! Even if your serve is decent, it’s still worth reminding yourself of some of the fundamentals.

Focus on Consistency, Not Power

The pros make the serve look effortless, but let’s be real - it’s one of the most challenging strokes in tennis. Trying to replicate their technique right away by focusing on hundreds of things at once will only lead to frustration. Instead, focus on getting your serve in the box consistently. That’s the most important thing for beginners. Once you’ve mastered that, the rest will follow.

Dos and Don’ts:

Don’t:

• Toss the ball too high: You don’t need a high toss to make a good serve - keep it controlled.

• Overpower the ball: Serving with power is tempting, but it’s more important to get the ball in first. You can add speed and spin as you improve.

• Try to add too much spin: Focus on consistency first, then you can work on adding spin later.

• Rush your second serve: Take your time and don’t rush your second serve—this is where consistency matters most.

• Be afraid to ‘tap it in’: If ‘tapping it in’ works, then do it! You don’t have to hit a powerful serve every time.

Serving is one of the most complex strokes in tennis, and it takes time to build a solid serve. At first, focus on getting your serve in play, building your confidence, and creating a reliable routine. With time and practice, your serve will improve, and you’ll be starting your points with more consistency.

Next time you hit the courts, just focus on getting your serve in and don’t overcomplicate it. Let us know how it goes!