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In the box below, Becky is in the contraction position. To see the simplified takeback position, move the mouse over the figure. Move the mouse back and forth to see the transition between these two stages.
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Note that, during the transition, the body is not yet rotating, nor is the arm. The racquet is pulled straight forward by the butt toward the ball without rotating the racquet head forward. Notice how the elbow is moved in front of the body by rotating at the shoulder. The feeling is one of pulling the racquet through by forcing the elbow through first. The analogy to pulling a towel that is sometimes cited is almost right, except that the elbow must come through in a more pronounced way than happens if you just pull a towel. Becky's left arm is on her hip to keep it from obscuring the movement. It would ordinarily be used to sustain balance and stability or to counter an equal but opposite reaction. Caution: Develop this motion carefully. If you are stiff, you might strain a muscle by being too aggressive. Allow several weeks for full development. |