How To Play Tennis: A Beginner's Guide

If you're starting to play tennis, you might feel slightly overwhelmed by all the different rules. But don't worry; we've got you covered. Here are the five most important explicit regulations tennis that every beginner should know.

1. The ball can only bounce once on each side

   In tennis, the ball can only bounce once on each side before it must be hit over the net. This rule applies to both singles and doubles games. If the ball bounces twice on one side, it is considered a "fault", and your opponent will automatically win the point.

2. You must hit the ball over the net

   It will help if you hit the ball over the net and into your opponent's court to score a point. However, if the ball hits the net and goes into your opponent's court, it is still considered a legal shot, and they will not automatically win the point.

3. You can only hit the ball once per shot

   You are only allowed to hit the ball one time per shot. If you hit the ball twice, it is considered a "fault", and your opponent will automatically win the point.

4. The ball must land inside the court

   For a shot to be legal, the ball must land inside the court. If the ball goes out of bounds, it is considered a "fault", and your opponent will automatically win the point.

All you need to play tennis is a racket and a tennis ball. However, a wide range of tennis equipment is available on the market, from different rackets to special shoes and clothing.

If you are starting, buying the most expensive equipment is optional. However, it is worth investing in a good quality racket as this will make a big difference to your game.

There are a few basic strokes that you need to master to play tennis. These are the forehand, backhand, serve, and volley.

Forehand

This is the most common stroke in tennis and is used to hit the ball from the front of your body.

Usually, you will hit the ball with your dominant hand, but if you are a left-handed player, you will use your left hand.

To hit a forehand, start by holding the racket in your dominant hand and position yourself, facing the front of the court. Then, when the ball comes towards you, swing your racket back and then forwards, hitting the ball in front of you.

Backhand

This stroke hits the ball from the back of your body. It is slightly more complex than a forehand but can be just as effective.

To hit a backhand, start by holding the racket in your dominant hand and positioning yourself, so you face the back of the court. Then, when the ball comes towards you, swing your racket back and forwards, hitting the ball behind you.

Serve

The service starts at each point and is arguably the most acute stroke in tennis. A good serve can be challenging to return and can put your opponent on the back foot from the very start.

To serve, start by holding the racket in your non-dominant hand and position yourself to face the front of the court. When ready, toss the ball into the air and hit it with your racket, sending it over the net into your opponent's court.

Volley

A volley is a stroke used to hit the ball before it bounces. It is an effective way of keeping your opponent on the back foot and can be used during rallies and serving.

To hit a volley, start by positioning yourself close to the net. Then, when the ball comes towards you, swing your racket and hit it, sending it back over the net.

Tennis is a game with a long history and tradition. As such, there are specific etiquette rules that all players should follow. Some of the essential tennis etiquette rules include:

• Always shake your opponent’s hand before and after the match.
• Never walk on your opponent’s court.
• Never throw your racket.
• Always try to hit the ball in such a way that your opponent has a fair chance of returning it.
• Congratulate your opponent on their good shots and be a good sport when you win or lose.

When playing tennis, it is essential to keep a few things in mind.

1. Remember that tennis is a game of patience. There is no need to go for risky shots if you are not in a good position
2. Focus on keeping the ball in play and making your opponent run. Eventually, they will make a mistake, and you will be able to take the point
3. Only take risks when you are in a good position and have a high chance of success
4. Have fun! Tennis is a great game to play and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. Please don't take it too seriously, and enjoy your time on the court!