3 TIPS on How to AVOID A BOUNCY SERVE! | ThePadelSchool.com

Summary

In this month's serve challenge, players are encouraged to transform their serve from a mere point starter to a powerful weapon. The video offers three key tips to achieve a less bouncy serve: hitting the ball at a higher contact point, starting with the racket high for a downward swing, and imparting slice for a low trajectory. By focusing on these aspects, players can improve their serve's effectiveness and potentially gain an advantage in their games.

Takeaways

• 🎾 The serve should not just be a point starter but used as an attacking weapon in the game.
• 🏐 A bouncy serve is often caused by low contact when hitting the ball at shin or knee height.
• 🤔 Many players have a higher ball drop but come under it, leading to a bouncy serve.
• 📈 To avoid a bouncy serve, aim for contact height at waist level or higher.
• 🏐️ Start with the racket high for a high take-back to meet the ball effectively and apply slice.
• 🤯 The feeling of starting with the racket high might be uncomfortable initially, but it's crucial for a good serve.
• 👋 When contacting the ball, apply a little slice to keep it low at the other end.
• 🧠 Forget the tennis forehand wrist action; it leads to a bouncy serve in paddle sports.
• 🎯 The racket face should be slightly open during contact for a horizontal trajectory and slice.
• 📅 Monthly member challenges are offered to help improve specific shots and techniques.
• 💡 Practicing serve is beneficial as it's a shot that can be worked on independently and is crucial for match outcomes.

Q & A

What is the main issue with many players' serve that makes it easy for opponents to return?

The main issue is that many players serve with low contact, causing the ball to be bouncy and easy for opponents to return at the other end.

Why does contacting the ball at shin or knee height result in a bouncy serve?

Contacting the ball at shin or knee height requires the ball to travel upwards over the net, which makes it bouncy and more predictable at the other end, making it easier for opponents to return.

What is the first tip to avoid a bouncy serve?

The first tip is to get the ball to a higher contact height, ideally up to waist height, to ensure it doesn't bounce as much at the other end.

Why is it important to start with the racket high during the serve?

Starting with the racket high allows for a more effective slice or top spin to be applied to the ball, which helps keep it low at the other end and makes it less easy for opponents to return.

What common mistake do players make when they have a higher ball drop but come under it?

Players who come under a higher ball drop often use their wrist like in a tennis forehand, which can result in a bouncy serve, as they are not applying the necessary slice or top spin to keep the ball low.

What is the third tip for improving the serve?

The third tip is to contact the ball with a slight slice, which helps to keep the ball low at the other end and makes it less likely to bounce.

How does the monthly member challenge work in improving players' serves?

The monthly member challenge involves providing a course of serve with specific challenges for the members to work on throughout the month. Coaches then analyze the members' videos to offer feedback and help improve their technique.

What is the benefit of hitting a better serve in paddle sports?

Hitting a better serve can result in an easier next ball for the server or even an unforced error from the opponent, making it a powerful weapon in the game regardless of the player's level.

Why should players invest time in practicing their serve?

The serve is a shot that players can work on independently, and it's a crucial stroke that can significantly impact the outcome of a game. Improving the serve can lead to easier points and unforced errors from opponents, making it a valuable skill to develop.

What is the purpose of the link to paddlesschool.com mentioned in the script?

The link to paddlesschool.com is provided for those interested in joining the membership challenges. It offers a platform where members can access different challenges, receive coaching feedback, and improve their game.

How can players access the free trial for the membership challenges?

Players can access the free trial by visiting thepaddle.com and signing up for the 7-Day free trial, which allows them to immediately start uploading videos for coach analysis and begin improving their serve.