Why Volleys Aren’t About Your Hands – They’re About Your Body
One of the most common misunderstandings among beginner and intermediate players – both kids and adults – is what the volley actually is.
Many assume it’s a hand skill. That it’s all about the racket, or the wrist, or some kind of reflex. But the truth is: a great volley is built on body position, leg drive, and balance – not arm swing.
At Mana Tennis, we often remind players that:
“A volley isn’t a hit – it’s a push. And that push begins in your lower body.”
When you play a volley, especially under pressure, you need a strong, low base.
Stay grounded, knees bent, weight slightly forward. That foundation allows you to transfer energy through your body, rather than rely on the arm alone. Think of it like bowling — the force starts from the ground and moves up, not from your wrist.
But here’s something that’s often overlooked:
🧠 The wrist must be controlled – and directed upward.
It’s not just about being stable in your legs — you also need a firm, calm wrist that helps guide the racket with precision.
The wrist stays slightly up.
The racket head stays up.
There’s minimal flick or movement in the hand.
Why is that important?
Because if your wrist starts moving around during the volley — especially in a reactive situation — your racket face will shift, and you lose control of both direction and depth.
A steady wrist = consistent contact.
It allows you to make those small, compact, controlled movements that define high-level volleying.
In many cases, you only need a 10–20 cm motion forward, depending on the ball – especially when redirecting pace.
Here’s what you want to focus on during practice:
Stay low and wide in your stance
Keep your racket head up and in front
Use your legs to push, not your arms to swing
Keep your body sideways and balanced
Focus on a calm, upward wrist position
Push through the ball — don’t slap at it
And when the ball comes lower?
Don't bend with your arm — bend through your knees. Let your body do the work so your technique stays compact and reliable.
💬 Final Thought:
Volleys, just like slices, are about control, feel, and structure.
If you can trust your body, control your wrist, and limit unnecessary movement — you’ll start hitting volleys that feel effortless and land exactly where you want them.
Start small.
Stay steady.
And let your body — not your hand — lead the way.