When it comes to tennis, the way you hold your racket can make a significant impact on your game. One popular grip that players use is the Eastern grip. But what exactly is the Eastern grip tennis, and how does it affect your gameplay?
Here, we’ll delve into the details of the Eastern grip, its advantages and disadvantages, and when it might be most beneficial for you to use on the court. Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve your technique or an experienced player wanting to try something new, understanding the Eastern grip in tennis can take your game to the next level. So, let’s explore this fundamental aspect of tennis together!
What Is a Tennis Grip?
The grip of a tennis racket refers to the manner it is held. The grip determines the force of your shot. Tennis grips have evolved significantly over time; nonetheless, classic designs continue to be relevant. Advancements in rackets and tennis court surfaces have resulted in important grip technology developments. While you may like a specific grip, using a variety of grips can greatly increase your performance on some shots, emphasizing the significance of versatility.
Overview of Eastern Grip
The eastern grip has forehand and backhand variations. The late 1980s and 1990s eastern forehand grip, popularized by Roger Federer, is still effective for groundstrokes. Excellent control and spin make the eastern backhand grip a great choice.
Place your dominant hand’s index finger correctly to use the eastern grip. Right handed players should place the base knuckle of their index finger on the third bevel of the racket. There are eight bevels.
Lefties position their knuckles with bevel seven.Place your palm on the flared handle end. Place your bottom knuckle of four index finger on the first bevel opposite the racket handle in the backhand grip.
How the Eastern Grip is Held?
It’s really simple to use an eastern forehand grip. To start, it is helpful to know that all tennis racquet handles are often designed like an octagon, which has eight sides, or what are called bevels in tennis, which resemble stop signs.
We can quickly identify the grip by giving each side a number. Securely wrap your fingers around the handle of the tennis racquet by placing the palm side of the knuckle of your index finger on the third bevel (for right-handed players) or the seventh bevel (for left-handed players).
The easter grip is probably going to be comfortable for most players, especially those who are just getting started. As a result, a lot of coaches still teach newcomers the eastern grip, especially when they find the western or semi-western tennis grips uncomfortable.
Advantages of Eastern Forehand Grip Tennis
The eastern forehand grip is usually regarded as the most straightforward approach to developing the forehand stroke. This grip is versatile, giving comfort whether making a topspin shot or striking the ball with power and precision.
Furthermore, switching from the eastern forehand grip to other grip styles is simple. If you prefer to approach the net during matches, this grip is ideal because it allows for easy modifications before performing your volley due to its similarity to the Continental grip. This allows for a quick and seamless transition when approaching the net to complete a volley.
This grip encourages a highly aggressive style of play, which frequently results in higher-risk tactics when players use a flatter trajectory, resulting in less topspin on the ball. Low net clearance might cause a lower bounce or the ball to skid off the surface, forcing your opponent to lift their shot and take a defensive position.
This sounds promising; nevertheless, it may not provide considerable benefits for beginners because it may increase error rates. The player must concentrate on how far they drive through the stroke, as less topspin means the ball will not curve downward into the court.
Drawbacks of the Eastern Grip
The main disadvantage of the Eastern grip is the difficulty in producing significant topspin. Depending on how you play the game, this may not be a huge disadvantage.
This may restrict the effectiveness of players who prefer to consistently strike the ball with top spin, as success with this shot usually requires a large amount of spin. Furthermore, the eastern forehand grip creates a flatter ball trajectory, which may lead to shorter rallies. While this is useful for securing points, it may not be as successful for sustaining long rallies.
High shots may provide some difficulty, as producing topspin with this grip is already difficult. Players must either move to take the shot early (on the rise) or use a sidespin return.
Applying more topspin allows you to play aggressively while maintaining a large margin of error. Allows for increased net clearance while ensuring the ball curves back into the court with urgency. Numerous top players and baseline competitions prefer the Semi-Western or Western grips.
Should You Use It?
Try multiple grips to find the ideal one for your playing style. Consider your risk-taking tendencies and preference for a patient, consistent approach from the start.
Eastern forehand grips benefit players who prefer playing from the baseline before scoring at the net. If Federer has worn it throughout his career, it meets our standards too.
It is Roger Federer’s favored grip. This grip promotes aggressive play and forward tempo infusion. It makes flatter shots easier than semi-western and western grips but produces less spin. Ideal contact is waist-level.
Work with a certified tennis coach who can evaluate your skills and provide personalized guidance. Our video explains how to forehand a tennis ball and provides tips for practice against a wall. We recommend looking!
Final Words
Mastering the Eastern grip can improve your tennis playing. This grip improves control and power, allowing for more accurate strokes. You can improve your tennis game by using the Eastern grip. Discovering and practicing this grip can improve your game, regardless of your skill level. Grab your racket, go to the court, and practice your Eastern grip today!
FAQs
Do Any Pros Use The Eastern Grip?
Roger Federer, like several other professional tennis players, continues to use the eastern forehand grip. It enables an excellent combination of power and spin on your forehand. To try the eastern grip, extend your dominant hand with the palm facing upwards. Next, hold the racquet in your hand with the strings facing upward.
What Is The Best Grip In Tennis?
Many professionals use the semi-western grip because it helps generate spin and produces higher-bouncing shots. Cade would use a semi-Western grip.
Can You Hit Topspin With An Eastern Grip?
The primary limitation of the Eastern grip is the challenge in producing significant topspin.
