| By "timing" I mean estimation of time to the precise | | | | You will discover however that on the regular one-two |
| instant when to hit the ball. | | | | count the ball drops to the most comfortable level for |
| There is a regulation timing to tennis just as there is in | | | | you to hit it - opposite your waist line. |
| music. It gives rhythm and smoothness to your strokes. | | | | Stick to the regular tempo in the beginning until the |
| It is also your check on your tennis swing. | | | | regular one-two count has become your almost |
| Timing is used on all balls. When you're on the court | | | | subconscious timing. |
| next time try this: | | | | You cannot employ timing if you lose sight of the ball. |
| The ball is sent to you over the net. When it bounces | | | | Therefore keep your eye on the ball. Watch it land in |
| on the court, count one. When it has dropped to the | | | | the court, one. Watch it bounce up and drop to the |
| level of your waist line, count two. On two, hit the ball. | | | | level of your waist line, at which precise instant the |
| This is the correct tempo and height to use on the | | | | actual hit is made, two. |
| great majority of strokes both forehand and backhand. | | | | It is interesting to note that the tennis pro's swing never |
| Count out loud at first and make your call a clear, firm | | | | varies in its timing. The swing therefore is smooth and |
| command. By slowing down your timing, you let the | | | | accurate. Tennis beginners as well should never under |
| tennis ball drop low. Speed it up, and you can hit the | | | | any circumstances hurry it. |
| ball at the top of the bounce. | | | | |