TIP OF THE MONTH: SLIDE ON CLAY
To slide for a forehand, one must learn to track the ball accurately and build up momentum just before one starts to skid. When you step into a shot on a hard court, you plant your lead foot where you want it to be at contact. Sliding on clay is different. You must learn to plant your foot a little sooner than usual, so you slide into the ball, not past it. Have your racquet ready, keep your eyes on the ball as you move, and stay on your toes. Your weight must be going into the stroke. It is impossible to slide if your weight is on your heels.
As you approach the ball, plant your left foot ( right handed ) and prepare to propel yourself forward. Stay loose in the knees and light on your feet. The ball of your left (sliding) foot, not the heel, should land on the ground first. If you land hard on your heel, you will dig into the clay and won’t slide very far. You want to lead with your toes and land softly. Still keep the racquet ready.
As your lead leg slides forward, your back leg should slide, too. Keep your legs flexed and your back toe pointed and on the ground so your foot can drag. The spacing between your feet will be wider than normal.
Your back leg is going to narrow the gap once your front leg stops.
Whatever you do, don’t fight the slide. Many beginners lean back as they start to slide because they feel as if they are going to fall. If you jerk back, you will stop short or hit a weak, off balanced shot.
You should be coming to a stop when you make contact with the ball. Once your follow through is complete in the shot, return to a ready position.
Slide as pro and good luck.
Mikael Andersson
Director of Tennis
