In tennis, you can stand in several different positions depending on the technique you're using. The main positions are facing forward -- an open stance -- and facing sideways -- a neutral stance. Traditionally, coaches taught players to use a closed stance. However, recently players have begun to favor an open stance. Both positions have benefits, so pick the stance that's more comfortable for you.
Closed Stance
In a closed stance, both feet are essentially pointing to the sideline with one foot stepping in front of the other, as if taking a step toward the sideline. The closed stance has some benefits, though it's not used nearly as much as it once was. The closed stance ensures that you completely turn your body and shoulders during a swing. However, the modern tennis game has become much quicker and oftentimes you won't have time to completely turn your body and shoulders. It takes longer from the closed stance to move into position to return the next shot.
Open Stance
With an open stance, both feet are essentially facing toward the net. Your body will still turn to the side during a back swing. An open stance has a number of benefits in the modern game of tennis and many current professional tennis players prefer this stance. Using this position encourages a full follow through. It also takes less time to set up a shot. This stance is most commonly used for top-spin ground strokes and two-handed back swings. A drawback to the open stance is that you might not be able to transfer weight properly and can lose balance easier.
Other Stances
A semi-open stance is very similar to the open stance. When in a semi-open stance, you are still facing the net but at roughly a 45-degree angle. For instance, a right-handed player would move her left foot slightly forward and transfer all of her weight to her outside hip, in this case the right hip. The neutral stance is a basic stance that all other positions are based on. Beginners in tennis use this stance. During this stance, your body faces the sideline but both feet are pointed slightly toward the net, or the outside foot -- the one on the same side as your strong hand -- is parallel with the baseline, with your weight on the outside foot.
Recommendations
If you're new to tennis, learn both the closed stance and the open stance. Use whatever stance is most comfortable to you. You can also vary your stances depending on the type of shot and the time you have to prepare for the hit. If you have time to set up your shot, get into a closed stance. However, with a quick return you'll likely need to use an open stance.
Posted in: Tennis