Tennis Pros on the Go Los Angeles

Tip of the week: The grip on the forehand: Most players in this day and age would benefit from using a semi-western grip on the forehand. Not to say you can't use an Eastern grip, but it's become a relic in today's game (although Federer uses one, still a rarity nonetheless). Take advantage of the racket technology today and try to use that semi-western grip for your forehand!

Tip of the week: The importance of footwork. A lot of times people ask me to "fix" their strokes. Now, if I see any mechanical errors, I address them immediately. That being said, a lot of bad strokes are a direct result of bad footwork. A lot of times the students' stroke is technically sound, but won't work because of sloppy footwork. Your stroke will have to compensate for bad footwork, therefore messing up your mechanics. Always look to fix your footwork first!

Tip of the week: Ball toss on the serve: People have asked me many times whether it is better to have a higher or lower ball toss. The truth is there is not one clear cut answer on it. It all depends on the players serving motion. Some players will have to throw it higher, some will have to throw it lower. All depending on their motion. The key is to not have a "hitch" in the motion, and make sure it's all fluid, thereby allowing you to build continuity and timing. Both thin...gs critical to having a great serve. Everything is always tailored specifically to YOU. -Thomas

Tip of the week: It's important to find an instructor who tailors his/her lessons to YOUR game, and doesn't just enforce his own style of play on the student. You can't fit a circle in a square peg. Work within the confines of their strengths and weakness'. Every player is different.