AboutEd Hines Expertise The Rules of Tennis primarily, including junior and collegiate application of the rules as well as recreational play. Please: NO questions about practice drills or ways to improve your game.
Experience Over 30 years playing the game, including USTA and ITA Officials' certification in junior, collegiate, and professional tennis.
Organizations USTA; Atlanta Professional Tennis Umpires Association
Awards and Honors ATP Linesman, Chair Official NCAA Regional Div I and Div III, Blue Gray Tournament Chair, SEC Championships, Southern Conf Championships, Atlantic Sun Conference, Several Junior National and Super National Jr. Tournaments, NCAA Womens Championship Finals, ASI and AT&T (qualifier final) Chair.
Expert: Ed Hines Date: 9/15/2007 Subject: which grip for 1st and 2nd serve
Question I've read a lot about using the continental and eastern backhand for serving.
I'm 5"6 and I'm trying to get as much spin on my serve so that i can maximize the speed.
Should i use continental or eastern backhand?
I find the full eastern backhand slightly uncomfortable and frame many shots, should I persevere? I cant find any pictures of pros with a grip that severe.
But will continental limit the spin I can create?
Thanks very much
Answer Graeme,
I have had a similar problem and have rotated my grip somewhat between the two, just a little off of a continental and it has seemed to help, though I don't get quite the spin/kick I got before. Then again, I have issues with my toss which you may not.
I'd suggest a few things: Invest the money in a certified pro to help you. Even if you can afford only one lesson, it will be worth it. There's no shortcut to private instruction.
If that's not possible, Google these terms and see if you can find articles or pictures on the internet. Or, go to library and find an instructional book; there are many.
Finally, and not necessarily in this order, write to one of our tennis experts that specialize in tennis INSTRUCTION, not rules, as is my specialty.
Good luck.
Ed
