Tennis Groundstrokes

Crosscourt Rally Consistency

Tennis drill for groundstrokes training sessions

Both players rally crosscourt from the baseline to build consistent groundstroke mechanics.

20 minDuration
2 playersGroup size
BeginnerDifficulty
Singles court (half)Space needed
Balls, racketsEquipment

What This Drill Improves

This tennis drill is best for beginner players who need focused work on groundstrokes. It works well with 2 players and can be adjusted by changing the space, pressure, or scoring rules.

Setup

Both players on opposite baselines. Rally crosscourt only.

Instructions

  1. Rally crosscourt continuously — neither player attacks.
  2. Count consecutive shots — target 20 in a row.
  3. If rally breaks down, reset and restart count.
  4. Switch from FH crosscourt to BH crosscourt after 10 minutes.

Coaching Points

✓ Aim for 1 metre inside the sideline and baseline.
✓ Racket finishes high over the opposite shoulder.
✓ Consistent ball toss height controls pace.

Common Mistakes to Watch For

  • Players losing focus on the main coaching point.
  • The drill area being too large or too small for the group.
  • Progressing the drill before the basic pattern is clean.

Progressions: Make It Harder

→ Add a target zone — land in the last metre of the service box.
→ Live competition — first to 20 in a row wins.
→ One player tries to move the other while staying crosscourt.

Regressions: Make It Easier

Walk through the pattern first, then build up to game speed.
Use larger targets or more space to help players succeed early.

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groundstroke rally consistency baseline
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