One of the most common errors among beginning and intermediate players is hitting the forehand with a careful, abbreviated motion instead of taking a full swing. While it’s not realistic to expect a 3.0 player to take the same roundhouse swipe that Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Amelie Mauresmo use on their forehands, a good shoulder turn and full follow-through should be one of the basic goals of every player. A simple way to remind yourself to do this is to go “shoulder to shoulder.”

As you prepare for your forehand, turn your upper body to the point that you’re almost looking over your left shoulder (right shoulder for left-handers). Some players who have exceptional upper-body turns actually touch their chins to their shoulders. After you strike the ball you should try to follow through to the point where your other shoulder and biceps come up to your chin.

Article by Tony Lance, Photo by Manuela Davies/Double Exposure – Tennis.com