We have discussed the first defensive forehand, which is characterized by having the upper arm rotation occur during the contraction stage instead of the acceleration stage. The second defensive forehand is characterized by starting with the conventional rotation stage rather than the takeback stage. We use the eastern grip to illustrate this shot. The purpose of this shot is to get you out of tight situations without losing ground or to hit short or slow balls for winners while nervous.

Below left is the start of the defensive forehand; on the right is a three-step animation of the stroke.

The elbow is cocked to provide acceleration potential as well as stability. The shoulders are at about 45 degrees. Below left is the second stage of this movement, where the upper arm has begun to rotate the racquet into position. However, the shoulder is pulled forward to maintain a forward momentum to the racquet. Below right is the rollover sequence.

	Move your cursor over the image to see the transition

Below left is the strike stage, and on the right is the associated rollover.

	Move your cursor over the image to see the transition

The strike is distinguished by an exaggerated forearm extension designed to insure a longer straight-line interval and some additional acceleration. The key to this stage is to be sure that the shoulder and elbow extension dominate and that the upper arm rotation only supports the movement.