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Forehand racket grip : Complete guide to choosing the best grip

The choice of forehand racket grip is fundamental for all tennis players, whether beginners or experienced. The grip affects not only the way you hit the ball, but also the power, control and spin you can give to your shots. In this article, we’ll look at the different grips used for forehands and help you choose the one that best suits your style of play. Whether you want to improve your power or your accuracy, understanding the subtleties of the forehand racket grip is essential. Improve your forehand grip with the tennis study programme at our international tennis academy.

1. Why racket grip is crucial for the forehand

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Influence on technique and performance

The racket grip affects several aspects of your game:

  • Power: Some grips generate more power by optimising the position of the hand and racket at the moment of impact with the ball.
  • Control: A good racket grip allows you to better control the direction of the ball.
  • Effect: Your grip also influences your ability to give spin to the ball, whether it’s topspin or slice.
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Choosing the right grip for your playing style

The choice of racket grip for the forehand should be based on your personal preferences and playing style:

  • Aggressive player: If you like to take risks and hit powerful shots, certain grips will allow you to exploit your potential to the full.
  • Defensive player: For a game more focused on control and consistency, other grips will be better suited to regulating trajectories and spin.

2. The different racket grips for the forehand

  • The continental plug

    The continental grip is one of the most versatile grips, although it is used less for forehands today. It is used more for serves, volleys and certain defensive shots:

    • Advantages: Allows great versatility and increased control in defensive shots.
    • Disadvantages: This grip does not generate a powerful topspin, which limits its effectiveness on the forehand.

  • The Eastern grip

    The semi-open grip is a popular grip for players who prefer an aggressive game:
    Hand position: The base of the index finger rests on the third facet of the racket, giving the racket head a closed position.

    • Advantages: This grip generates a good compromise between power and control.
    • Disadvantages: It offers less topspin than other more modern grips, but is still suitable for fast surfaces such as grass or hardcourts.

  • Western grip

    The closed grip is particularly popular with modern players looking to generate maximum topspin:

    • Hand position: The hand is positioned so that the racket is completely closed on impact with the ball, giving better control of spin.
    • Advantages: Ideal for baseline and clay court players.
    • Disadvantages: The closed grip can be difficult to master for beginners and requires excellent hand-eye coordination.

  • Semi-Western grip

    The semi-closed grip is one of the most widely used on the professional circuit because it offers a good compromise between power and topspin:

    • Advantages: Allows you to generate a lot of topspin while maintaining a good level of control and power.
    • Disadvantages: It needs to be adapted to different surfaces, particularly on grass where it is less effective.

3. How to choose the right racket grip for your forehand

Test the different sockets

It’s essential to try out several grips to find the one that best suits your playing style:

  • Play practice rounds with each grip: This will allow you to feel the differences in the way you hit the ball, depending on the grip you choose.
  • Adapt the grip to your preferred surface: On fast surfaces such as grass or hard courts, certain grips such as the semi-open grip may be more advantageous.

Be patient as you progress

Changing your racket grip may take some getting used to. It’s important not to get discouraged if the results aren’t immediate:

  • Repeat regularly: As with any technique, repetition is essential if you are to integrate the new grip naturally.
  • Correct mistakes gradually : Work with a coach to correct any faults associated with the new grip.

4. Tips for improving your forehand with the right grip

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Maintain correct posture

Once you’ve found the right forehand grip, make sure your posture is correct:

  • Foot position: Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and flexed for greater stability.
  • Anticipatory preparation: Prepare your shot in advance by turning your shoulders and placing the racket backwards.
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Practise hitting with release

Release is the key to generating power while maintaining control:

  • Relax your dominant arm: Don’t contract your muscles too much at impact. This will allow you to hit the ball with fluidity.
  • Work on following through: Once you’ve hit the ball, let your arm follow through naturally.

Conclusion

The forehand racket grip is a fundamental element for any tennis player who wants to improve their game. Whether you choose a more closed grip to generate topspin or a more open grip to favour power, it’s crucial to find the one that suits your style of play and your preferred surface. Try out different grips, be patient as you progress, and don’t hesitate to ask a coach for help in refining your technique. With the right grip, your forehand will become more precise, more powerful and more effective on the court.

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