A strong approach shot turns a short ball into a chance to take control of the net. The best tennis approach shot drills teach more than how to hit forward: they help you recognize the right ball, move through it with balance, and recover into a useful volley position.
Use the drills below with a partner, coach, or ball machine. Start at a comfortable pace, then add targets and live points. The aim is not to charge the net after every short reply; it is to approach when you can hit a controlled shot that makes your opponent defend.
What Makes a Good Tennis Approach Shot?
A good approach shot gives you time and space to reach the net. It can be a forehand, backhand, slice, or even a drop shot followed by a move forward. In most cases, look to hit deep through the middle or toward a corner, then split-step as your opponent makes contact.
Before you move in, check the quality of the ball. A short ball that sits up is an invitation to attack. A low, fast ball near your feet may be better handled with a deep, controlled shot while you stay back. If you approach off balance or hit short, your opponent can pass you or hit at your feet.
1. Short-Ball Recognition Drill
This drill trains the decision that comes before the approach. A partner feeds a mix of deep balls and short balls from the opposite baseline. Rally normally on deep feeds. When a ball lands short, move forward, set your feet, and hit an approach shot.
- Start near the baseline in a ready position.
- Have your partner feed six to ten balls, mixing deep and short feeds.
- Approach only when the short ball gives you time to move forward and attack.
- After each approach, split-step near the service line and play out the point.
Focus: Read the ball early and move forward in control. Avoid sprinting before you know where the feed is going. Begin with a cooperative feed, then ask your partner to vary the depth and direction.
2. Approach Shot to Target Drill
Place a cone or marker deep in each corner of the opponent’s court. Your partner feeds a short ball to your forehand or backhand side. Hit an approach toward one of the targets, then move forward and prepare for a volley.
Try three types of placement: deep crosscourt, deep down the line, and deep through the middle. The middle can be a smart choice because it reduces the sharp passing angle. Crosscourt gives you more court to aim for, while down the line can work well when you have opened that side.
Complete two sets of eight feeds, switching sides between sets. Count a point for an approach that lands deep in the chosen zone and another point if you reach the net balanced. Don’t chase the corner at the cost of a short or risky shot.
3. Approach, Split-Step, and First Volley
Many players hit a decent approach but keep running forward without checking their balance. This drill connects the shot to the next movement. A partner feeds a short ball; you approach, move toward the service line, and split-step as your partner hits a controlled passing attempt.
- Start at the baseline and approach on a short feed.
- Move forward with small adjustment steps after your shot.
- Split-step just before your partner’s reply reaches their contact point.
- Play the first volley to an open target, then finish the point.
Begin with feeds that let you volley comfortably. Later, your partner can aim lower or wider to make you move. Keep your racket in front and avoid rushing so close to the net that a low volley becomes difficult.
4. Forehand and Backhand Approach Patterns
Approach shots often come from a specific pattern: a deep rally ball draws a short reply, and you move forward to attack. Practice both sides so you don’t become predictable or avoid your backhand.
For a simple pattern, rally crosscourt with your partner. They send one shorter ball, and you approach down the line. Continue the point. Repeat on the other side, using a backhand approach. If the short ball pulls you wide, aim deep and crosscourt rather than forcing a sharp line from a poor position.
Do two rounds of five approaches per side. Track whether you made a balanced contact and reached a good volley position—not just whether you won the point. A slice approach can be useful on a low ball because it stays close to the court, but it still needs enough depth to keep your opponent under pressure.
5. Approach Shot Decision Drill
In a match, the correct approach depends on the ball, your position, and your opponent. This drill adds a choice. Your partner feeds short balls to different areas, and you decide whether to attack, rally deep, or recover toward the baseline.
- Short and high: Step in and attack with control.
- Short and low: Use a compact swing or slice, and approach only if you can keep the ball deep.
- Wide and stretched: Prioritize a safe, deep reply and regain balance before moving forward.
Ask your partner to call “attack” or “stay back” after the feed if you are learning the pattern. Later, make the decision yourself. This is especially useful for players who tend to run to the net automatically whenever they see a ball land short.
6. Live Approach Points
Turn the drills into tennis by playing short points. Start with one player at the baseline and the other feeding a short ball. The receiver must hit an approach and come forward; the feeder tries to pass or lob. Play the point out, then switch roles.
Play to 11 points. Award a bonus point for a well-chosen approach that lands deep and leads to a balanced split-step, even if the opponent makes a good passing shot. This rewards sound decisions instead of encouraging players to rush the net on weak balls.
Common Approach Shot Mistakes
- Hitting too short: Aim for depth first. A sharp angle is less useful if it gives your opponent an easy pass.
- Running through the contact: Use controlled steps and stay balanced enough to direct the ball.
- Choosing the wrong ball: If you are stretched or late, focus on a solid recovery shot rather than forcing an approach.
- Forgetting the split-step: Time it as your opponent is about to hit, not after the ball has already passed you.
- Always approaching to the same side: Vary your placement, but choose the safest option based on your position.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I aim an approach shot?
Aim deep, usually toward a corner or through the middle. The best target depends on your position and the opponent’s court coverage. A deep middle ball can limit passing angles; a corner can force your opponent to stretch.
Should I approach on every short ball?
No. Approach when you can reach the ball in balance and hit with enough depth or placement to put your opponent under pressure. If the ball is low, wide, or moving quickly, a safe rally shot may be the better choice.
How often should I practice approach shot drills?
One or two focused sessions a week can help. Use short blocks of eight to twelve feeds, then play points so you practice choosing when to come forward.
Is a slice approach shot effective?
Yes, especially on a low ball or when you want the ball to stay low. Keep the slice deep and move forward under control; a short slice can give your opponent time to pass you.
Final Thoughts
Effective tennis approach shot drills link recognition, shot quality, and net movement. Practice attacking the right short ball, aiming with control, and split-stepping before your opponent’s reply. When those habits become part of your point play, moving forward feels less like a gamble and more like a well-timed way to take charge.
