Should You "Pause" During Your Serve Motion? | Tennis Serve Lesson

Summary

In this informative video, John from Performance Plus Tennis discusses the concept of a 'pause' or 'hitch' in a tennis serve, using professional player Carlos Alcaraz as an example. He explains that a hitch in the wrong part of the serve can negatively affect performance, but a strategic pause, particularly during the ball-tossing phase, can enhance power and coordination. John offers practical advice on how to achieve a smooth, hitch-free serve, emphasizing the importance of timing, coordination, and the correct sequence of movements. He also addresses common issues related to ball tossing and offers solutions to improve serve efficiency.

Takeaways

• 🎾 The concept of a 'pause' or 'hitch' in a tennis serve is common among players, including professionals like Carlos Alcaraz.
• 🚫 A hitch is considered problematic when it disrupts the natural flow of the serve, particularly if the racket stops in the wrong place.
• 🤔 The ideal place for a pause is during the 'loading' phase, where the server places the ball and gets organized for a coordinated and powerful swing.
• 🌟 Even top players like Roger Federer have a pause in their serve, which can help with generating power and maintaining control.
• 💡 The pause should not negatively affect the server's power; in fact, it can contribute to more efficient power generation.
• 🏐 Variations in serving styles are normal, and what works for one player may not work for another. The key is to find a style that suits the individual.
• 🤸‍♂️ To improve serve motion and eliminate unwanted pauses or hitches, practice throwing the ball and maintaining fluid hand movement without stopping the racket.
• 🤹‍♂️ Adjusting the ball toss can help with timing and coordination issues. A higher toss may naturally lead to a brief pause before the swing.
• 🏆 Recreational players can benefit from adopting the technique of leading with the left hand and focusing on placing the ball first, then swinging the racket.
• 📈 High-performance players often toss the ball higher above the contact point for reasons such as better loading and more power generation.
• 🎥 For further study, there are resources available, including a free mini-course, to help master the five key principles for achieving full potential in serving.

Q & A

What is the main topic of discussion in the video?

The main topic of discussion is the concept of having a pause or hitch in a tennis serve, specifically analyzing whether it is beneficial or detrimental to a player's performance.

What does the term 'hitch' refer to in the context of tennis serves?

In the context of tennis serves, 'hitch' refers to an unintentional pause or break in the smooth continuity of the serving motion, often occurring when the racket stops in an incorrect position during the swing.

What is the difference between a 'loading pause' and a 'hitch' according to the video?

A 'loading pause' is a deliberate, strategic break in the serving motion that allows the player to get organized and prepared for a powerful, coordinated movement. A 'hitch', on the other hand, is an unwanted pause that disrupts the natural flow of the serve and negatively impacts performance.

What advice is given to players who struggle with a hitch in their serve?

Players struggling with a hitch in their serve are advised to practice throwing the ball and maintaining a fluid motion without pauses or delays. They should focus on building muscle memory for a continuous, smooth serving motion.

How can adjusting the ball toss help with serve timing and coordination?

Adjusting the ball toss can help with serve timing and coordination by ensuring that the player does not pause unnecessarily while waiting for the ball to reach its peak height. Instead, players should aim to toss the ball to a height that allows for a smooth transition into the swing without any hitches.

What is the significance of leading with the left hand during the serve?

Leading with the left hand during the serve helps to create a more natural and fluid motion. It allows the player to place the ball first and then swing the racket, which can improve the overall efficiency and power of the serve.

Why is a low ball toss not recommended for most high-performance players?

A low ball toss is not recommended for most high-performance players because it can lead to a variety of problems, such as reduced power and height on the ball. High-performance players often toss the ball higher to allow for better loading and more power in their serves.

What percentage of high-performance players are said to not hit the ball at the apex of their toss?

99% of high-performance players are said to not hit the ball at the apex of their toss. They typically toss the ball 2-4 inches above the contact point to maximize power and performance.

What is the common practice among WTA players regarding the pause in their serve?

It is common among WTA players to have a little loading pause in their serve, especially if they are pinpoint servers. This allows them to get organized and prepared for the powerful, coordinated movement needed for an effective serve.

What additional resources are available for players looking to improve their serve?

For players looking to improve their serve, there is a playlist on the channel covering almost everything related to the serve. Additionally, a free mini course is available to develop the five key principles needed to master the serve and achieve full potential.

How can recreational players benefit from the concepts discussed in the video?

Recreational players can benefit from the concepts discussed by understanding the difference between a hitch and a loading pause, adjusting their ball toss height, leading with the left hand, and practicing to build muscle memory for a smooth, continuous serving motion. These adjustments can lead to improved serve performance.

Outlines

00:00

🎾 Understanding Serve Pauses and Hitches

This paragraph discusses the concept of pauses and hitches in a tennis serve. It addresses the question of whether one should have a pause in their serve, referencing a review on Carlos Alcaraz's serve. The speaker explains that while there are many serving styles, a 'loading pause' can be beneficial as it allows the player to get organized for a powerful and coordinated movement. However, a hitch, which is an unwanted pause that disrupts the flow of the serve, can negatively impact performance. The speaker advises on how to avoid such hitches and improve serve efficiency through practice and muscle memory exercises.

05:02

🎾 Advanced Serve Techniques and Common Issues

The second paragraph delves into advanced serve techniques and common issues faced by players. It discusses the impact of ball toss height on the serve and how adjusting the toss can compensate for timing issues. The speaker emphasizes the importance of leading with the left hand and placing the ball first for a more natural and fluid swing. The paragraph also touches on the differences between pinpoint servers and other players, noting that most high-performance players toss the ball higher above the contact point for various reasons, including power and height advantage. The speaker concludes by encouraging viewers to explore more serve techniques and offers a free mini course for further improvement.

Keywords

💡Pause

In the context of the video, a 'pause' refers to a momentary stop or hesitation in the continuous motion of a tennis serve. It is a critical aspect of the serving technique that, when properly executed, can enhance the power and accuracy of the serve. The video explains that a pause can be beneficial if it occurs at the right stage of the serve, such as during the 'loading' phase where the server organizes their movement before striking the ball. However, an incorrectly placed pause, such as one that interrupts the natural flow of the swing, can negatively affect the serve's efficiency and power.

💡Hitch

A 'hitch' is a term used in the video to describe an undesirable interruption or break in the smooth sequence of a tennis serve. Unlike a purposeful pause, a hitch occurs in the wrong part of the serving motion and disrupts the coordinated movement, leading to a loss of power and control. The video emphasizes the importance of identifying and correcting a hitch in one's serve to improve overall performance.

💡Loading Pause

The 'loading pause' is a specific type of pause mentioned in the video that occurs when a player is positioning the ball and preparing to make their serving motion. This pause is considered beneficial as it allows the server to get organized and coiled, ready to generate a powerful and coordinated movement. It is a strategic moment in the serve where the player can set themselves up for an effective and powerful shot.

💡Serve

The 'serve' in tennis is the initial shot played in a point, which starts the rally. It is a crucial aspect of the game as it can set the tone for the entire point and potentially give the server an immediate advantage. The video focuses on the mechanics and techniques of serving, emphasizing the importance of a smooth and efficient motion to maximize power and control.

💡Coordination

Coordination in the context of the video refers to the harmonious and synchronized movement of the body during a tennis serve. Proper coordination is essential for executing a smooth and effective serve, as it allows the server to transfer energy efficiently from the ground through their body and into the ball. The video highlights the importance of coordination in relation to the timing of the ball toss and the swing.

💡Ball Toss

The 'ball toss' is the act of throwing the tennis ball into the air as part of the serving motion. It is a critical component of the serve, as it sets the trajectory and timing for the subsequent swing and strike. The video discusses the ideal height for the ball toss and how it can impact the server's coordination and timing, emphasizing the need for practice to develop a consistent and effective ball toss.

💡Racket

The 'racket' is the equipment used in tennis to hit the ball. In the context of the video, the proper handling and movement of the racket during the serve is crucial for generating power and accuracy. The video discusses the importance of a continuous and fluid motion of the racket, avoiding any pauses or hitches that can detract from the effectiveness of the serve.

💡Muscle Memory

Muscle memory refers to the process of training the body to perform a specific movement automatically through repetition. In the video, the concept of muscle memory is used to emphasize the importance of practicing the serve with the right technique to develop an ingrained and efficient serving motion. By repeating the correct serving motion, a player can train their body to perform the movement naturally and without conscious thought.

💡Timing

Timing in tennis serve refers to the synchronization of the various elements of the serving motion, such as the ball toss, the racket backswing, and the forward swing to hit the ball. Proper timing is essential for executing an effective serve, and the video discusses how a hitch or pause in the serve can be a sign of poor timing. By working on coordination and practicing the serve, players can improve their timing and overall serve performance.

💡Recreational Players

In the context of the video, 'recreational players' refers to amateur tennis players who play the sport for enjoyment and exercise, rather than professionally. The video provides advice and tips specifically tailored to this group, addressing common serving issues they face and offering solutions to improve their game.

💡High Performance Players

The term 'high performance players' refers to professional or highly skilled amateur tennis players who compete at a high level of the sport. The video discusses how these players often employ a specific serving technique, such as tossing the ball higher than the contact point, to maximize power and efficiency. The video encourages recreational players to learn from these high-performance techniques to improve their own serve.

Highlights

The importance of understanding different serving styles and identifying the right advice for one's own serve.

Carlos Alcaraz's serve has a hitch, but it occurs in the right area, providing a powerful and coordinated movement.

The concept of a 'loading pause' in the serve, which allows for organization and efficient power generation.

Roger Federer also had a pause in his serve, showing that even the best players use pauses effectively.

The negative impact of a hitch in the wrong area of the swing, which disrupts the natural flow and power of the serve.

The advice to avoid having a hitch or pause beyond the trophy phase of the serve.

The suggestion to practice with a ball to build muscle memory for a fluid motion in the serve.

The relationship between the timing of the ball toss and the swing, and how adjustments can be made to compensate for issues.

The common mistake of putting the racket behind the back and then pausing, which hinders power generation.

The recommendation to delay the racket pull-up and lead with the left hand for a more natural and fluid swing.

The reason why high-performance players toss the ball higher above the contact point for better loading and power.

The observation that pinpoint servers are more likely to have a pause due to the narrow window of time for the serve.

The advice against using a low toss to eliminate the hitch, as it can lead to other problems in the serve.

The effectiveness of practicing with a continuous swing and focusing on placing the ball first and swinging the racket second.

The encouragement for recreational players to aim for a higher toss for improved serve performance.

The offer of a free mini-course for further development of serving skills and mastering the five key principles of an effective serve.

Transcripts

hello everybody John here with

Performance Plus tennis should you have

a pause in your serve and this is a

question that I've been recently getting

um I did a review on Carlos alcarez

serve here on the channel check that out

but I've had a lot of questions about

should you have a pause because he does

indeed have a pause on the serve and

that pause is often referred to as a

hitch so we're going to talk about the

pause the hitch what you should and

shouldn't be doing in today's lesson and

much more and before we tear into

today's lesson I just want to be clear

that there are so many different styles

of serving there's different tempos

there's different rhythms there's

different ball Heights and in general

what I try to do is provide advice that

will help the majority of you get the

right ideas on your serve but there will

always be variations one variation

that's really not ideal is having your

racket stop in the wrong place in your

swing we take a look at Carlos alcarez

he does have a little hitch in a swing

if you will or a pause if you want to

call it a pause just like Andy rodic did

but the key thing is that the pause

happens in the right area and what I

call that is like a a loading pause is a

stage in the serve where you place the

ball up and before you make your move

you have a little loading pause and

really for me I like to think of that as

being a a place in the serve where you

feel like you get organized so that you

can make a powerful coordinated movement

onto the ball even Roger feder had a

pause in his serve now a hitch is where

the swing breaks in the wrong place in

the serve and we see that amongst

amateur recreational players quite a bit

where the the racket will come back and

stop in the back and then go now that's

obviously a a pause or hitch that we do

not want so if you're going to have a

pause in your swing it can be anywhere

between this area here it could be

pausing here as you're tossing and it

could be anywhere in this area here here

here but past here you would never want

to pause or a hitch in your swing

because once you get into this loading

area here once you make your move the

racket's going to fall and rise and

swing Naturally by itself so be sure

you're working on skills that are going

to help you

not have any kind of a hitch or pause in

your swing beyond the trophy phase but

having a a pause here as you're lining

up the ball loading in to go get it is

perfectly acceptable and it doesn't

deplete your power at all in fact I

think anti-erotic would tell you that it

actually helped him create more power

because he he got into a position where

he was coiled and loaded and he he was

in a position where he felt like he

could really rotate and generate a

tremendous amount of power very very

efficiently but he had that little hitch

movement in there so some servers do it

some servers don't do it it's neither

right nor wrong what's wrong is having

that hitch in the wrong area in your

swing if you're struggling with your

service motion you feel like you're

pausing in the wrong area and you've got

a hitch or it's just generally not very

efficient some exercises you can do

that'll really help you and just start

out by throwing the ball and when you

throw the ball you're not going to come

back and stop your hand and have delays

or pauses you're going to make that wck

that hand move in one fluid motion

so this is just

simulating my serve and I'm just keeping

my hand in motion if you just do that

repetitively that's going to help build

a muscle memory of a nice fluid motion

and then when you pick up the racket you

just imagine that it's a ball but just

obviously don't throw it but just do the

exact same thing and just feel that once

you make your move and the racket starts

to fall it follows you and it rises

right away and you get this nice

throwing

action okay now there are reasons why

sometimes we will have a hitch or a

pause and that's related to the timing

or coordination of the swing in relation

to the Ball Toss so for example servers

many servers who toss the ball too high

will pause and wait and they'll get

stuck and you can make adjustments to

help compensate for that that's probably

the most common thing the other thing

that happens often times with

recreational players is we have this

intention to put the racket head behind

racket behind our head so we put it back

here because we've been told to scratch

our back and then the racket pauses in

our back because we're putting the

racket here tossing and then hitting and

of course that's a big no no in terms of

generating any kind of power or

performance on your serve so the

solution to that is really delaying

putting the racket pulling the racket up

and leading with the left hand so often

times you'll see in today's game the

pros are leading with the left hand they

feel like they're placing the ball

first and Swinging The racket second and

it's that sequence that will enable your

swing to become much more natural and

fluid and take any um unintentional or

poor hitches that are not helping your

swing remove those out of there so this

will help you a lot throwing and then

feeling you place the ball first swing

the racket second and you'll be

surprised how your motion will start to

become very natural and fluid without

even thinking about it the racket will

fall and Rise by itself some of you

might be thinking well one way to get

rid of the the hitch or a pause in my

swing is to toss the ball lower so I

take time away and of course that would

definitely you know force you to have to

have a continuous swing but at the same

time there's a whole host of problems

that come along with that uh that I have

addressed in other videos here on the

channel and if you look at the majority

of high performance players uh 99% of

them are not tossing the ball and

hitting at the Apex of their toss

they're tossing the ball 24 inches above

the contact point for high performance

reasons reasons of loading pushing up

with the legs getting more height more

power on the ball

and it's something that all recreational

players should be trying to do as well

so I wouldn't think I wouldn't encourage

you to have a lower toss to keep your

motion going because there's all kinds

of problems that come with that um and

I'm not a big fan of of a a low toss for

many reasons which you can check out

here on the channel and if you're a

pinpoint server you're more likely to

have that pause because there's a little

window in time there when you've placed

the ball up and it's a little different

for most players and there are some

servers like cas for rude and and even

Nicos who do pinpoint and they have a

continuous motion and a low toss but

that's not the norm okay most cases the

toss is going to be a little bit higher

and what's going to happen is they're

going to toss the ball up once the ball

leaves the hand the back foot's going to

come up and there's going to be a little

loading pause before they make their

move on the ball and that's extremely

popular or common amongst WTA players

and even some ATP players like Carlos

alcaras so if you're a pinpoint server

you're probably going to have that

little loading pause in your serve and

that's perfectly okay thanks so much for

watching today's lesson and I hope that

these Concepts help you improve your

serve performance be sure to check out

the playlist here on the channel where I

cover almost everything on the serve and

if you're looking to even dive deeper

into your serve click in the link in the

description down below and get my free

mini course to develop the five key

principles you need to master to achieve

your full potential on your serve please

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have a lot more coming here at

Performance Plus tennis thanks for

watching today's video and we'll see you

in the next lesson