How to Grip a Tennis Racket Properly for Beginners

How to grip a tennis racket properly for beginners

There are six common and popular gripping methods in tennis. We tell you all about these grips so you can learn and start using these grips in the game!

When you play tennis, a key factor that affects your game is the way you grip the tennis racket.

The tennis grip refers to how you hold the racket, including the position of your fingers.

It also decides how the ball behaves once you hit it.

There are six common and popular grips in tennis – read more about these grips so you can learn and start using these grips in your game.

How to Grip a Tennis Racket Properly for Beginners

The 6 tennis grips:

Discover these tennis grip methods to decide which suits your playing style and type best!

How to Grip a Tennis Racket Properly for Beginners

1. Continental grip

Image credits: tennissg.com

This is a basic tennis grip and is the first you will learn.

Once you master this grip, you can then start to learn other grips.

It is a neutral grip formed when you hold the racket such that the V-shape between your thumb and forefinger is at the eleven ‘o ‘clock position.

This is the ideal grip you need to serve, smash, or volley.

If you want to slice a drop shot from the back of the court, then this grip will help you.

It is the basic forehand grip to learn.

You must know that using it for backspin or topspin is not so easy.

How to Grip a Tennis Racket Properly for Beginners

2. Eastern forehand grip

Image credits: tennissg.com

This is the classic grip used when you want squarely-placed slices or swings.

Move the hand clockwise over the racket in such a way that the V formed by the thumb finger is between 12 and 1'o clock.

It will feel as though you are shaking hands with the racket.

This is also a basic grip that you will learn during your beginning session.

You must know that professional players like this grip.

Like the continental, this grip is not very convenient when you want to impart topspin to the ball.

How to Grip a Tennis Racket Properly for Beginners

3. Semi-western grip

The semi-western is a forehand grip where you try to shake hands with the racket. 

You need to ensure the base knuckle of your index finger is placed on the slanted plane of the grip downward and to the right. 

This grip tilts your racket downwards so you can impart topspin.

This grip can be a game-changing one and is preferred by many expert players. 

It is not suitable if you want to slice or hit low balls.

How to Grip a Tennis Racket Properly for Beginners

4. Western grip

When gripping the racket, ensure the V formed by the thumb is beyond the 3’o clock position. 

This is one of the favourite positions of top Spanish players who are masters of the clay court. 

They, in fact, twist the grip, so they hit the ball using the opposite side of the racket.

It is an ideal grip for creating topspin. However, it is not suitable for slicing, hitting square, or for low balls.

How to Grip a Tennis Racket Properly for Beginners

5. Eastern backhand grip

You start off as in a continental grip but move in an anti-clockwise direction. 

It is as though you are using your racket like a hammer to hit a nail. 

The V of the hand should cover the edge at the grip top.

You can generate good topspin by flexing your wrist. 

You can also drive through and flatten the ball easily when you use this grip.

How to Grip a Tennis Racket Properly for Beginners

6. Two-handed backhand

This grip is like playing the forehand with your wrong hand while using the other hand for support. 

If you are a right-handed player, the left hand will do most of the work.

This is a powerful grip as compared to a one-hand backhand grip. 

However, the difficulty is in volleying, slicing, and reaching out to wider shots.

Buying tennis gear:

Now that you know all about the different tennis grips, it is time to try them out.

Before you start playing, get the best Decathlon tennis racket to help you improve your game.

Apart from the racket, there are other useful tennis products that you can buy.

Here is a shortlist of the best tennis products to buy!

How to Grip a Tennis Racket Properly for Beginners

1. Tennis racket artengo tr960 precision

If you want the best racket to help you improve your game, then this is a racket you must have.

The racket has a thin beam offering precision and the best control.

The soft feel technology used ensures comfort while hitting the ball.

It is available in three different grip sizes and in two colours.

How to Grip a Tennis Racket Properly for Beginners

2. Tennis racket artengo tr 160 lite

Just started out with tennis? Then you'll need a versatile racket.

The racket should be ideal for learning, easy to handle, and should pack power – and this one meets all the criteria!

It helps deliver powerful shots thanks to its 660 sqm head. Its lightweight 270g frame allows you to swing it easily.

How to Grip a Tennis Racket Properly for Beginners

3. Tennis ball artengo tb160

If you are looking for a good quality tennis ball, the TB160 is a good option.

The pressureless ball has a normal bounce and is ideal for beginners.

Available in a tri-pack, the balls are made from quality materials ensuring durability.

How to Grip a Tennis Racket Properly for Beginners

4. Tennis multi-court ts 110 shoe

You'll need the right kind of shoes while playing tennis.

The TS 110 offers comfortable cushioning, allowing beginners to enjoy their game.

The shoes look elegant, are comfortable to wear, and also ensure safety.

They're also durable and can handle normal wear and tear.

How to Grip a Tennis Racket Properly for Beginners

5. Sports recovery roller mr 500

It is not uncommon to have aching muscles after an intense game of tennis.

The sports recovery hard roller MR 500 is ideal for a deep massage after a game.

You can roll it on your thighs, back, and calves to get relief from aches.

The hard foam on the roller ensures your muscles relax well.

How to Grip a Tennis Racket Properly for Beginners

6. Racket sports towel ts 100

While playing tennis, you are bound to sweat a lot.

You need a good quality towel, and the TS 100 is the best you will find.

The towel is soft and absorbent. It is comfortable to use and helps to remove sweat easily.

It is conveniently sized to pack in a bag after the game.

You can even use it to dry your hair after the game.

Hopefully this beginner's guide on the proper grip for tennis and other recommended tennis products was useful for you!

Have a smashing good time ahead!

How to Grip a Tennis Racket Properly for Beginners

Written by: ellysa jamaludin

Racket sport digital sports leader, decathlon singapore

"Have a smashing good time!"

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