The volley is how you finish points at the net. It is a short, controlled shot, not a big swing, and once you get the feel for it, it makes you far more dangerous on the court. Here is how to hit a clean tennis volley.
Quick answer: A volley is a shot hit before the ball bounces, usually near the net. Use a continental grip, keep your swing short (a firm punch, not a swing), meet the ball out in front of you, and step in with the opposite foot. Keep your wrist firm and your eyes on the ball through contact.
What a Volley Is
A volley is any shot you hit out of the air before it bounces, most often at or near the net. Because you have less time, the technique is compact and controlled. Volleys are used to finish points, cut off the angle, and put pressure on your opponent. Master the grip first with our racket grip guide.
The Grip
Use the continental grip (like holding a hammer) for both forehand and backhand volleys. It lets you hit both sides without changing grips, which you have no time to do at the net.
How to Hit a Volley, Step by Step
- Ready position: stand with knees bent, racket up and in front, weight forward on the balls of your feet.
- Split step: as your opponent hits, do a small hop to land ready to move either way.
- Turn, do not swing: turn your shoulders slightly and take the racket back only a little.
- Punch forward: meet the ball out in front with a short, firm punching motion.
- Step in: step toward the ball with your opposite foot for power and balance.
- Firm wrist: keep the wrist locked so the racket face stays stable.
- Short follow-through: finish compact, then recover to ready position.
Forehand vs Backhand Volley
|
|
Forehand volley |
Backhand volley |
|
Grip |
Continental |
Continental |
|
Hands |
One hand |
One or two hands |
|
Key cue |
Punch out front, step in |
Firm wrist, lead with the racket |
The backhand volley often feels more stable for beginners because the arm structure is naturally firm.
Common Volley Mistakes (and Fixes)
- Swinging too big: shorten it to a punch; the ball’s pace does the work.
- Loose wrist: keep it firm so the racket face does not wobble.
- Letting the ball come to you: meet it out in front instead.
- Flat feet: split step and step into the volley.
- Dropping the racket head: keep it up, especially on low volleys where you bend your knees instead.
Drills to Practice Volleys
- Wall volleys: stand close to a wall and volley continuously to build a firm, compact stroke.
- Feed and volley: have a partner feed balls to your forehand and backhand at the net.
- Split-step timing: practice split stepping every time your partner hits.
- Low-volley knee bends: feed low balls so you practice bending your knees, not dropping the racket.
Pair net play with a solid baseline game. See how to play tennis for beginners and the basic rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a volley in tennis?
A shot hit before the ball bounces, usually at or near the net, using a short, controlled punching motion.
What grip do you use for a volley?
The continental grip, which lets you hit forehand and backhand volleys without changing grips.
Why do my volleys go long?
Usually because you are swinging too much. Shorten the stroke to a firm punch and let the incoming pace do the work.
Should I volley with one or two hands?
Forehand volleys are one-handed. Backhand volleys can be one or two hands; two hands can feel more stable for beginners.
Final Thoughts
A good volley is short, firm, and out in front, not a big swing. Use the continental grip, split step, and step into the ball, and drill it until it feels natural. Get to the net with confidence in Olaben tennis apparel made to move.
