The Reliable Plan B: Perfecting Your Second Serve
As a young tennis player, your second serve is one of the most important shots in your game. While your first serve is often about power, your second serve should be your reliable “Plan B” when things don’t go as planned. A solid, consistent second serve helps you avoid double faults, stay in rallies, and control the flow of the match. In this article, we’ll break down key tips to help you perfect your second serve and make it a stronger weapon on the court.
One of the most important elements to mastering your second serve is adding spin to the ball. A topspin or kick serve is particularly effective because it creates a higher bounce, making it tougher for your opponent to return. To hit a kick serve, focus on tossing the ball slightly higher and behind your head. As you hit the ball, use your racket to brush up the back of it, generating topspin. The higher the toss and the more you brush up, the more spin you’ll create, which allows the ball to kick off the ground, making it harder for your opponent to attack. Alternatively, if you're looking for a safer and more controlled option, a slice serve is a great choice. By using a continental grip and brushing across the ball, you can create sidespin that makes the ball curve away from your opponent. A well-executed slice serve can pull your opponent wide off the court, giving you the chance to set up the next shot.
Another key factor in a successful second serve is having a consistent toss. A steady toss ensures that you hit the ball in the same spot each time, making it easier to control your serve. To get the toss right, aim to release the ball just above your head and slightly in front of you. This positioning allows you to hit the ball with proper spin and placement. Practice your toss without hitting the ball so you can perfect its height and location. The more you practice, the more reliable your toss will become, and this consistency will translate into a better second serve.
While your first serve may focus on power, your second serve should emphasize placement and consistency. Serving to the corners of the service box or aiming for your opponent’s body are smart ways to make your second serve effective. Serving to the corners forces your opponent to move, while a well-placed body serve can jam them and make it difficult to return. When hitting your second serve, focus on making it deep and accurate rather than trying to hit it with too much power. Precision and control are more important when you’re on your second serve.
To improve your second serve, practice specific drills that focus on both spin and placement. One great drill is to set up targets or cones in the service box and aim for them with your second serve. This will help you develop accuracy and consistency. Another helpful drill is the toss-and-hit drill, where you practice tossing the ball and focusing on hitting your second serve with proper spin and control. Start slow to make sure you’re hitting the ball cleanly, then gradually increase the speed and spin as you get more comfortable.
Finally, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for when perfecting your second serve. One of the biggest mistakes is trying to hit the ball too hard. Overhitting your second serve can lead to double faults, which is why consistency should always come first. If you focus on spin, placement, and control, you'll be much more reliable. Another mistake is an inconsistent toss. If your toss is too high, too low, or too far in front or behind, it can throw off your serve. Spend time practicing your toss until it becomes second nature.
By adding spin, focusing on placement, and working on your toss, you can turn your second serve into a reliable and effective shot. A solid second serve can help you avoid double faults and give you more control in rallies. Keep practicing, stay patient, and soon your second serve will become one of your most dependable assets on the court.
