Essential Tennis Podcast - Instruction, Lessons, Tips

The wide slice serve is a CRITICAL tool to have in your tool box. It pulls opponents out of position, opens the court up for you to hit into, exposes their usually weaker backhand side, and forces them to run twice as far for the next shot - if they even get it at all. Let’s take a deep dive into how YOU can develop this powerful weapon, step by step in this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast.

In this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast, you're going to learn the top 3 tactical secrets of Novak Djokovic that you can apply in your very next match. Use these tools to gain precision, consistency, and offense to make your opponents more uncomfortable, win more points, and win more matches.

If you love tennis and want to perform your best in competition so you can win many more matches than ever before, then this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is exactly for you. You're about to learn the top 13 ways that you can instantly improve your competitive results through highly practical and actionable tips and tricks related to strategy, mindset, technique, and the mental game. Let’s start winning more tennis matches NOW!

If you want to be a great tennis player then you MUST do the three things revealed in this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast, PERIOD. The best players on your local courts do them and the weakest ones don’t, so don’t miss any of these insights because they’ll level up your game fast.

If you’re a doubles player looking to take your game to the next level then this is the episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you've been waiting for. You’re about to learn 3 advanced tactics that will pressure your opponents and win you free points.

Topspin allows you to hit harder and aim higher WITHOUT making mistakes so it’s critical for beating good players. This special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast will reveal exactly how the pros make SO much topspin plus special drills to maximize yours to level up your game.

Carlos Alcaraz has one of the best disguised, most effective drop shots of all time and in this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast I’m going to explain exactly how he does it so you can add it to your game and win more matches. You’ll learn how to effectively use the same techniques, strategies and training Alcaraz does!

The kick serve is one of the most desired shots in all of tennis. Unfortunately it’s also the shot that has the most misconceptions and bad advice surrounding it. In this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast I’ll dispel the myths, explain the reality of hitting a real kick serve and reveal step by step drills that you can do to hit one yourself, FAST!

If you want to move around the court with smoothness, effortlessness and flow then you can’t miss this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast! You’ll learn why high level players seem to float across the court surface, what the special move is that makes it possible, and the step by step drills I use with my students to help them achieve exactly the same smooth results. You’re about to learn everything you need to dramatically upgrade your footwork!

I don’t know about you, but I’m tired of tennis racquet companies telling me they’ve invented the latest, greatest “technology” that will give you maximum power, control and feel all at the same time thanks to their nano - molecular - hyper - thermal - space age fibers expertly woven into your racquet by magical elves from Madagascar. In this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you’ll learn the 5 critical racquet factors that determine if a frame is made for you or if it’s not. Learn what works best so you can play your best!

There are few things more frustrating in tennis than not being able to trust your hardest, most powerful shots – forcing you to stick with with safe, tentative shots that your opponents can easily attack. In this episode I'll dissect the root cause of this problem, and give you the solution for hitting hard shots you can count on...

Lurking in every club, at every public court, and probably in YOUR service motion is the single biggest flaw that's holding back your game – and worst of all, it's the toughest technique problem to fix. In this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast I'll lay out the roadmap for defeating the dreaded "Waiter Tray".

After posting a video on my personal channel calling out the WORST attitude in tennis, a player named Ben realized the video was describing HIM and sent me a long email explaining what led him to become a real life tennis troll. He agreed to sit down and get everything out in the open – here is our full conversation.

If you HATE playing doubles with a weak partner who doesn’t know where to stand, where to aim, or how to avoid your opponents then this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is exactly for you! You’ll learn how to take matters into your own hands, dictate play, and be a hero to your weaker partner.

If you’re tired of never getting the ball at the net in doubles and points lasting forever until a baseline player finally misses then this is the episode you've been waiting for. You’re about to learn how to magically appear in exactly the right place at exactly the right time so you can STEAL points from your opponents and level up your game.

If you feel like you’re trying hard on your forehand but just can't hit a powerful shot then this is the episode you've been waiting for. That’s what my recent student told me was happening to her, but when I took my first look at her contact position it didn’t make any sense. Here's how I discovered the root of her problem and the steps you can follow to start hitting more effortless and powerful forehands...

How would you like to play your BEST tennis in the BIGGEST moments instead of crumbling under pressure? That’s exactly what you’re going to learn how to do as I deconstruct the recent video by Karue Sell from MyTennisHQ. He had an incredible result in a set against Taylor Fritz, the current world #12, and his reaction to that result speaks volumes about the difference between the mental toughness of world class players and regular, every day ones like you and me. Hope you enjoy this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast.

There’s a 90% chance your ready position SUCKS based on the tens of thousands of hours I’ve spent coaching everyday tennis players like you. Without checking all four boxes needed you’ll never move around the court as quickly or smoothly as you should. Find out what they are in today’s special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast.

Novak Djokovic is one of the most mentally tough tennis players of all time but it’s not for the reason most people think. Find out what the secret is in this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast so you can become a better competitor during matches, play your best when it matters most and level up your game.

If you’ve EVER tried to keep your tossing arm up on your serve then you MUST listen to this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast because that tip might be ruining your tennis results. Find out how long is too long to keep your arm up and how to hit your serves with the most power, smoothness and athleticism possible!

What if you could make your best swings, hit your best shots and play your best level completely on auto pilot? Without thinking about it at all? That’s what the best competitors at ALL levels are able to do: play on instinct and habit instead of a merry go round of constant reminders and thoughts. Find out EXACTLY how to do that in this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast! 

What if you could make your best swings, hit your best shots and play your best level of tennis completely on auto pilot? Without thinking about it at all? That’s what the best competitors at ALL levels are able to do: play on instinct and habit instead of a merry go round of constant reminders and thoughts. Learn how to do that and much more in this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast.

If you’re an adult competitive tennis player that feels stuck with the same game, the same strokes, year after year, and you’re starting to feel like giving up - DON’T. This episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast will reveal how to use the Improvement Circle to break out of the rut of bad habits, advance your game and reach the next level as quickly as possible.

The last 18 months have been a struggle and I wanted to let you know why I haven’t been posting new episodes of the Essential Tennis Podcast. Thank you so much for all your support over the years. I appreciate it tremendously.

The thing holding you back from the next level of tennis is something truly unexpected. It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been playing, what level you are, how many lessons you’ve taken or how many matches you’ve won. Every player across the globe has yet to master this ONE thing and it’s keeping them from the quality tennis they’re capable of. Find out what it is and how to fix it in this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast!

Often times tennis lessons ARE a waste of money because they simply don’t provide the type of service that students were expecting. Today’s special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast features a candid conversation between Ian and a player who felt ripped off. Was it warranted or did he make a mistake signing up for the coaching he did? Find out so you don’t make the same mistakes and get the most out of your tennis experience.

Pickleball is all the rage right now so I got some coaching and played some matches to see if it’s as great as so many people think. In this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you’ll hear my candid thoughts about what Pickleball is nailing, what the tennis community can learn from it, and whether I’ll be sticking with tennis or transitioning to Pickleball.

The mental side of tennis used to be my biggest weakness and now it’s one of my biggest strengths. I’ve gone from being angry, self critical and spiraling out of control match after match to perfectly balancing my thoughts, feelings and mental energy. How was I able to do it? In this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast I look back over the last 20 years of work, reflection and learning to uncover the most important changes I’ve made that have turned tennis competition into a joy again.

If you’re sick of playing better in practice than you do in matches then this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast can’t be missed. You’ll learn the two big problems holding players back from their best performance when the pressure is really on, and most importantly, how to break free of those traps and finally become the competitive player you’ve always dreamed of.

If you’re sick and tired of bad line calls in tennis matches then this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is a must listen. You’ll learn the surprising reason behind why they happen so frequently, what you can do about it in the moment, and even how you can keep them from sabatoging your level of play and destroying your results. If you’re a serious tennis player who wants to perform their best when it really matters then don’t miss this.

One thing more than any other keeps players from immproving level after level in tennis. It’s not technique or strategy related, or even access to good coaching. Without addressing it you’ll eventually plateau and then stay stuck for the rest of your playing career. Find out what it is and how to break free from the trap in today’s special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast.

Out of all the cliché, overused tennis coaching the instruction to “finish your follow through!” is one of the worst. Find out why and what you should be doing instead in this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast. You’ll learn how a long, smooth, full follow through can actually happen automatically, without you thinking about it at all, so your whole tennis game can become more powerful and easy!

What’s happening inside the mind of an elite competitor like Roger Federer right as things are looking most dark and pessimistic during a match? Is he visualizing holding a trophy, saying positive affirmations or some kind of special mantra? This episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast reveals the answer along with 4 huge takeaways that we can all learn from when it comes to mental toughness and playing our best tennis under pressure!

If you’ve ever felt stuck in your tennis game then this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is a must listen. It features four stories from Ian’s past as a player and coach where things felt very wrong and how he was able to navigate through those tough periods. If you’ve ever lost your tennis happiness then this is a must listen!

A huge chunk of the practice tennis players do is a total waste of time. It’s a waste because the same bad habits are getting repeated again and again and again. How do you get off that merry go round of non-improvement? Find out in this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast. It’s time to finally break free and make meaningful improvements to your game!

There’s a shocking truth about how points are won and lost in tennis. It’s true for the most elite professional players in the world and also true for the rest of us. Failing to understand the reality of this insight will leave you frustrated, angry and ineffective on the court. Find out what it is in this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast so you can have a clear, accurate understanding of how the game truly is.

Tennis players blame all kinds of things for not improving as fast as they want including lack of time, money, training partners and quality coaching. Unfortunately there’s a much bigger, more important reason that nobody ever talks about. Find out what it is and how you can overcome it in this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast.

I recently took a tennis lesson in which I wasted my coach’s time. It could have easily been avoided by taking some simple steps before the lesson started but I failed to see it coming. Find out what that mistake was and how you can learn from it to take charge of your tennis improvement and advance as quickly as possible in this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast.

It doesn't matter how long you've been playing, what level you've risen to or how high your tennis IQ is; you're probably living this lie on the court right now. Find out what it is and the two solutions you can deploy right away in today’s episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast.

As we get older adjusting our training, mindset and expectations on the tennis court can be a huge challenge! Today’s special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast features an open, candid conversation between two lifelong tennis coaches (Ian Westermann and Nate Brolling) about how they’re finding success in competition after many years away from matches to focus on their instruction. You’ll learn about physical preparation, mental hurdles and much more. 

Ever have an off day on the tennis court? Of course you have! How you react and respond to those days may very well determine if you continue to improve, stay stuck, or even regress back to lower levels. Today’s special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast highlights a key mindset hack that will allow you to embrace less than ideal training sessions and matches so you can make the most of each and every day on the court.

All my life my serve has been smooth, flowing and natural. Now, over just the last few months, it has become jerky, tight and slow. Why?? The answer reveals tennis improvement truths that are critical for all players to understand if they want to continue developing their games and reaching the next level. Find out what it is in this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast.

Are you wasting time and money on your current tennis coach? This special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast dives deep into the signs and signals that it may be the case and also provides a clear blueprint for what you SHOULD be looking for during your lessons. Every tennis player has different goals and every coach provides a slightly different service so understanding these nuances is critical to your tennis happiness and success.

A year ago I challenged myself to get back into competitive tennis after focusing exclusively on my coaching for over a decade. Now, after high performance training sessions, drilling, playing league matches, doubles tournaments and singles tournaments I realize I had SO much to learn about myself and my game. This episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast shares the top 7 of those lessons so you can learn from my successes and failures.

A lot has happened since the last episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast so I wanted to post a quick explanation about where I’ve been and what I’ve been up to. If you’re curious then listen in. If you’re looking for instruction then skip this post!

Do you get nervous during tennis matches causing you to play worse, get tight, and choke? If so this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is a must listen because you'll discover a step by step process for dealing with anxiety, finding peace with competitive situations, and truly performing your best.

April 1st has a very deep and special meaning for me and in this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast I’ll reveal what it is. You’ll learn how it has shaped my growth as a tennis player, coach, business owner and much more. This single perspective and focus has done more to help me accomplish my goals on and off the court than anything else over the last 10 years. I hope it does the same for you.

Everybody knows Roger Federer as an elite tennis player but how did he gather those skills? What and where are his roots as a person and a competitor? My special guest on this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast has the answers after taking an incredible journey to dig deep and uncover Federer’s past. 

Do you get nervous before big tennis matches? Of course you do - you’re not a robot! The key to tennis success when the pressure is on isn’t removing nervousness but having the right relationship with it which is exactly what you’ll learn about in this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast. It’s time to play your best tennis when it really matters!

Do you feel stuck with your tennis development? If so you’re probably overlooking ONE big element of improvement. Unfortunately most tennis players skip it which leads to lots of time spent on elements that don’t really matter. To find the solution listen to this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast!

If you want to play your best tennis then setting up healthy habits and routines is critical, especially around the “Big 3”: sleep, exercise and nutrition. In this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you’ll hear what tips, tricks and rituals I use to maximize those three areas of my life so I can go into every day with the most energy, focus and drive possible.

It's been a long time since I've uploaded an episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast. I'm sorry! I felt like I should explain where I've been so this is a quick update. No coaching or instruction. Just letting you know how things are going and what my plans are.

Recently I took off my coach’s hat and put on my student hat as I took my first tennis lesson in two decades from a local high performance coach. It was an amazing experience and in this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast I’ll share how I dealt with him asking me to focus on different technical elements than what I was trying to do in my own training. Having the right mindset about development and training approaches is key to your success!

If you think old dogs can’t learn new tricks this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is for you! You’ll hear the story of a 76 year old coaching student that transformed his first and second serves within just a few hours of training. He even used his new technique in a match the very next day with amazing results. We can all learn from the attitude and mindset of this experienced player!

Have you invested in lots of online coaching only to feel overwhelmed and stuck? If so this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is exactly what you need to listen to! Ian uncovers his 7 step process for identifying what to work on, how to make steady, positive progress in the right direction, and knowing when to move on to something new. You’ll finish the episode knowing exactly how to guide yourself to the next level and beyond!

Do you have a bad tennis habit that’s been stuck for 10 years or more? So did John, but recently he made a huge breakthrough! Find out how he was able to do it and what steps he took that you can copy yourself. Hint: it did NOT involve hitting more balls, taking more lessons, or playing more matches. This episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast contains the key to finally dropping your old, frustrating habits.

Guess what you DON’T need to improve your tennis game: a coach, ball machine, hitting partner or even a tennis court! Sure, those things could all be helpful but often we’re restricted in our ability to access them which is why this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is so important. You’ll learn what other two things you need to advance your skills and exactly how to use them so you can improve no matter where you are or what means you have.

Millions of tennis players dedicate mental and emotional energy to the WRONG things every single time they play a match. The result is no bandwidth left over to focus on what really matters when it comes to playing great tennis! In this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you’ll learn what your mind should be focused on, what it shouldn’t, and how you can improve this critical skill and become a better competitor.

What do skateboarding tricks and tennis improvement have in common? You’ll find out in this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast! Any time you venture out and try new techniques, swings, or upgrades you’re making a risk. Time, energy, and money is on the line but so is one other BIG factor. Find out what that is so you can keep improving your tennis game.

It doesn’t matter if you’ve been playing your whole life or picked up a racquet for the first time yesterday: tennis is chock full of challenges, obstacles and disappointments. What really matters is your response when you encounter them, which can have a tremendous effect on your success as a player and your enjoyment of the game. In this episode we’ll discuss the difference between action and reaction, and how choosing the right one can turn your game, match, or whole tennis career around.

In life we’re frequently put in situations that feel hopeless. Where it doesn’t seem like there’s anything we can control and everything is working against us. I was recently put in an uncomfortable position exactly like that and some people around me wondered if I was going to throw in the towel. Thankfully tennis has taught me valuable lessons and in this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast I’ll share which have pulled me through tough times!

Have you had a long break away from the court and you’re wondering how to transition back in an effective way? If so this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is critical listening! You’ll learn how to mentally, physically, and technically ease back into high quality tennis without overdoing it, injuring yourself, or setting unrealistic expectations that leave you frustrated and dejected. This is your roadmap back to the tennis court!

Most tennis players have terrible feel because they view “touch” as being an on/off switch. Find out how you should approach it instead in this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast! You’ll even learn a feel drill that you can do right now with a racquet and ball to help develop your awareness of an element critical to developing soft touch.

A lot of changes have taken place at Essential Tennis over the past two months. This quick upload explains them! Not a regular tennis instruction episode. Thanks for your support!

Today’s special guest is a two time tennis world record holder who knows a thing or two about focusing on what matters most! You’ll learn about Angelo Rossetti’s breakthough “3-2-1 Method” for drawing his student’s attention to the most essential elements of tennis success, why thinking about the “controllables” is so important to your tennis happiness and much, much more!

Believe it or not being stuck at home presents 3 big opportunities for tennis players! Unfortunately they're overlooked by most because their mindset and perspective has been thrown off by the difficult situations around them. Find out how you can break free of the negativity and fully take advantage of the chances to improve your tennis game at home on this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast.

Some time ago, while Ian was teaching a week-long clinic, he lost the feel for his simplest, most practiced shot – the feed! It's a universally dreaded experience for tennis players to have an off day and lose one of their most trusted tools, often in the middle of a critical match. In this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast, Ian shares how to navigate yourself out of this common situation so you can get back to playing your best tennis when it matters most.

With leagues cancelled, clubs closed, and tennis courts all around the world being shut down it feels like the improvement journey has to be put on hold. Wrong! There is SO much you can do right in your own living room, garage or yard to improve every aspect of your tennis performance and IQ. In this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you’ll learn which 6 parts of your game you can work on away from the court as well as step by step resources to help you with each of them. Stay safe, stay healthy, and keep working hard on your game!

There's nothing more frustrating than putting your valuable time into improving an aspect of your tennis game, only to look back weeks, months, or even years later and still be struggling with the same problems. The truth is, it doesn't matter how correct the instruction you're receiving is if you aren't following the correct process for learning, applying and developing a new habit. Here's how we've been able to see real, lasting improvement in students' games in as little as 30 minutes – and how you can, too.

Have you ever wondered what separates a tremendously successful tennis player from a struggling one, or what separates a world-class player from an amateur? This episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast features Warren Pretorius, founder of Tennis Analytics – a company that provides detailed match analytics, scouting along with detailed statistical reports. We take a deep dive into the fascinating world of tennis statistics, and discover what they really mean for you and your game.

It doesn’t matter if your mental game, strategy game, technique or even fitness is holding you back: this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast will give you the solution to breaking through those barriers and reaching the next level of performance! It all starts with viewing improvement through the right lens which is exactly what you’ll hear Ian explain. Enjoy and keep working hard on your tennis game!

This mindset episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast will get you thinking deeply about why you love the game, what you really want to get out of it, and where you should set your sights in the coming weeks, months, and years. Get this wrong and your tennis experience can become miserable just like it did for me! Get it right and literally every time you walk onto the court can be a big success.

What patterns, techniques and strategies can you copy from the pros NOW? Find out in this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast! You’ll hear a special conversation with Matt Bradshaw, the host of “Coffee Break Tennis” on YouTube who’s been breaking down the stats and data from the best players in the world for years. He’ll fill you in on exactly what top pros are doing with their serves, returns, net game to get an edge and win more matches, things that you can do yourself in your very next match!

Feedback is a crucial element for any successful student-coach relationship, but what about directing your coach to work on the things you want to improve? In this episode the of the Essential Tennis Podcast we'll discuss how trying to manage your your own tennis improvement can do more harm than good, and why you probably don't know your tennis self as well as you think you do...

We like to believe that simply knowing how to fix bad technique is enough to help us correct it, but when the rubber meets the road and the ball starts flying our way, we find ourselves going right back to what we know. Unlearning a deeply-rooted habit can be a challenge, but knowing how to counter your tendency to stick with what's comfortable can mean the difference between tennis transformation and a lifetime of being stuck. This week we'll discuss how to "trick" your brain into following the correct technique – even when it doesn't want to!

Get ready to have your tennis match obstacles flipped on their head! In this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you’ll learn why the things that bother you the most during competition might actually be great opportunities in disguise. This one, simple mindset shift could make the difference between winning and losing your very next showdown with a tennis foe.

It’s a common struggle for players on the road to tennis improvement: learning how to hit a better forehand, backhand or serve, practicing it several times, then trying to use it in a match only to find your old, bad habits coming back to bite you! The hard truth is, those old tennis habits never go down without a fight, so knowing HOW to fight them is the key to success. In this episode, Ian shares what really works (and what doesn’t) after working with thousands of students...

Have you been improving on the tennis court fast enough? If your answer is “no” then the message in this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is critical to listen to. You’ll hear the story of a little boy and a swimming pool that illustrations an essential mindset we all need to keep from getting stuck in a rut in every walk of life, on and off the court.

If you ever feel lost at the net then do NOT miss this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast! You’ll learn the one shift my student made to go from ducking and going the wrong way at the net to athletically pouncing on balls no matter which direction they went. Apply what you learn and you, too, can double your confidence and effectiveness at the net in either singles or doubles.

This is the ultimate checklist for tennis success in 2020! Listen as Ian counts down his top ten tools, mindsets, processes, and approaches to learning that have made the biggest difference in his students over the past twelve months. Use any 5 of them in the New Year that you’ll see a huge difference in your game. Use all 10 and you’ll have the best tennis year of your life! Thanks for another year of support for the Essential Tennis Podcast.

Tennis has been a core part of my life for almost 30 years and during that time I’ve come to be incredibly thankful for a great many things that the game has given me. This episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast will explore the top four of those things as well as give actionable suggestions on how you can make all of them a more deep, purposeful part of your own tennis experience.

Do you truly have what it takes to reach your next level of tennis? Today’s special guest, Bob Litwin, shares what he has discovered during his incredible journey from losing every national level match for over three years to winning 25 US National Championships, becoming ranked #1 in the world and many more impressive accomplishments. His insights into the mental game, performance and self development are incredible so don’t miss this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast!

Tennis players are constantly caught in a terrible downward spiral of nerves, tension and errors. That probably sounds familiar but how in the world do you break the cycle?? In today’s episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you’ll learn how and also why the way out is very counterintuitive. It’s time to break free of those tight, choking mistakes that lead to frustration and lost matches.

What you focus on during training and match play has HUGE implications about your level of success and development. I recently learned that the hard why while playing a classic board game with my daughter! Find out what mistake I made and how tennis players all over the world are making the same one every time they step onto the court. This episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is a must listen for every player who’s passionate about improvement!

If you love doubles and have a passion for improvement then this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is for you! My very special guest is Gyata Stormon who recently authored “On the Ball - Doubles Tennis Tactics for Recreational Players”. Together we discuss what the “shot cycle” is in tennis and why it’s important to understand, the biggest keys to being a supportive partner, and how to successfully use a staggered attacking formation.

One key tennis perspective can make the difference between having a fulfilling, satisfying experience on the court and spiraling into negativity. This episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast will share what that perspective is and how in the past it led me to completely lose confidence in my most confident swing: the forehand. Now my response is completely different and I’m so grateful for that which is why I wanted to share today’s topic!

You have a “smart phone” and a “smart TV” but what about a “smart tennis court”? Today’s special guest is working hard to make it reality! You’ll learn how AccuTennis is pushing the technology envelope when it comes to drills, coaching, match analysis, line calls and score keeping all at the same time using their special hardware and software. Best of all it’s WAY more affordable than you probably think! Be sure to check them out at www.accutennis.com.

The journey of every tennis player is marked by a million little victories and disappointments: hitting the ace or double faulting... winning the match or being blown out... experiencing our greatest level of play or being sidelined by an injury. It's not IF we will experience disappointment, but HOW we respond to it that really counts. A recent lesson taught me the perfect word that to keep telling ourselves to keep ourselves on track; I hope it helps you persevere through every disappointment you encounter along the way.

Your mindset and perspective around winning and losing will determine your happiness on the tennis court! That’s why today’s episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is so important. It shares a student story about battling a familiar foe. One with more skill, weapons, and talent. How do we approach those matches and how should we judge our performance? Find out now!

You’ve been told to “keep your eye on the ball” in tennis but what if that’s exactly what’s holding you back from improving your technique?? In many cases it is and this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast tells a story that illustrates exactly how that happens. Plus, you’ll learn how we use two special kinds of instructional progressions to help players of all levels break free from the ruts they’re in.

Are you blocking yourself from tennis improvement? Countless tennis players all around the world are without knowing it! That’s because they’re too scared to know the truth about what their game really is and stepping out towards the fear isn’t something they’re willing to do. Good news: you CAN break through and reach your goals but only with the right mindset and perspective! This episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is aimed to do exactly that.

If you’ve EVER been down in the dumps after losing a tennis match then this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is critical to hear! You’ll learn some stats from professional player results that will blow your mind, a new perspective on what it means to “fail” in tennis, and also a step by step approach to practically break down your losses so you can come away with priceless insights into your own game. The result: consistent improvement instead of getting stuck in negativity.

Every once in a while we get a glimpse into the mind of a champion like Rafael Nadal. That’s exactly what happened during his post match press conference after the US Open final this past Sunday where he won his 19th grand slam title. He was asked about negative thoughts, the slam race, adjustments as he ages, and possibly becoming world #1 again. His responses were filled with wisdom and insight which I’ll share with you in this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast along with my thoughts on how you can apply them to your own game!

There are great tennis lessons and BAD tennis lessons, but how do you tell the difference?? This episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast will dive deep into the top five ways you can tell that a tennis lesson won’t get you where you want to go. Of course, different players are looking for different types of lessons, too, so you’ll also learn about what to look for depending on your goals and aspirations on the court!

We're super excited to announce a brand new audio podcast from Essential Tennis called the "Shankcast"! This is a quick update to give you the details on that show plus let you know how you can get FREE access to any of our online coaching programs, but only through the end of September. If you love tennis then you'll absolutely love the Shankcast podcast. Go subscribe today!

http://www.essentialtennis.com/shank

How would you like to tell the future on the tennis court by knowing EXACTLY what your opponent is going to hit next? You can do it! But only if you know exactly what to look for, watch, and analyze as your foes move around the court and prepare to hit each shot. In this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you’ll learn all 5 elements needed to deconstruct your opponent, read their patterns and intention, and show up in exactly the right place at exactly the right time. Nothing is more fun!

If you’re frustrated by what Father Time is doing to your tennis game then this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is a must listen! You’ll hear an incredibly specific, practical conversation between Ian and Brent Abel who is world ranked in men’s 70’s competition. Not only has he stayed sharp over time but he’s playing better than ever and has a tremendous amount of wisdom to share for players of all ages!

What is it exactly that separates beginner, intermediate, and high level tennis players? What’s the magic combination of skills, abilities, and traits that sets them apart? This episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast will explain the top 7 things beginners miss that keep them at low or intermediate levels of play. Plus you’ll learn exactly what to focus on instead of those mistakes so you can propel your game to the next level and beyond!

Did you know you have a lot in common with one of the best tennis players ever to step onto a court, Rafael Nadal? You do! Today’s episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast will explore the mentality and perspective around making mistakes including how the world’s most elite competitors respond after hitting a shot they clearly didn’t mean to hit. You’ll also learn my own personal philosophy about hitting and missing feeds during point play, drills, or practices.

This special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast features a conversation with Marcus Cootsona, the author of "Occam's Racquet" and "TNNS LSSNS, Filling the Gaps in Your Game". Together we discuss why tennis isn't an intuitive or natural game, how we can tell if a coach is worth taking lessons from, plus what the gaps in our games are and how we can fill them.

So you want to do video analysis for your tennis game, but where in the world do you start?? Which camera is best? What about tripods, software, or shooting angles? Don’t worry, in today’s episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you’ll learn the step by step details for all of those things and many more! Good news: it’s much, MUCH easier than most people think. In fact, you probably already have everything you need.

This special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast features a candid conversation with Dr. Peter Scales, Ph.D. You'll learn how its possible to love the game of tennis more than simply winning and losing, what mental traits separate frustrated players from satisfied ones, and how to approach your practice and competition to be as successful as possible.

So what does it REALLY take to bring your tennis game to the next level? Today you’ll find out during this candid and open conversation between coach and student. Learn exactly what drills, mindsets, and schedules Amadou used to dramatically improve his technique and strategy over the span of 6 months so you can utilize the lessons he learned! If you take your tennis results seriously then you can’t miss his episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast.

If you lose to singles players you KNOW you should beat then today’s episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is a must listen! You’ll learn the 5 key principles needed for singles success so you can evaluate your opponent, set up effective patterns and plays, and adjust your strategy on the fly like a pro to find the best possible plan of attack. Ignoring any of the five things in this episode means leaving matches on the table so be sure to tune in if you’re serious about your tennis results!

There’s an underlying assumption being made by tennis players and coaches that KILLS the potential to win matches! Singles and doubles players alike are making this critical perception mistake that keeps them locked into losing patterns of play. Find out what that wrong mindset is, how it was holding back one of my students, and how we’re breaking him free with amazing results in this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast.

It can happen to the most passionate of players: an injury, a change in schedule, losing access to a court… life can throw any number of things at us to keep us from the game we love. But when you’re ready to pick up your racquet and hit the court again after years - or even decades - of time away, getting back to your former level of play can feel impossible. In today’s episode I’ll discuss the best (and worst) way to get you back in the game as quickly as possible.

Do you get nervous when you play tennis matches? Do you get tight, lock up, and become a totally different player once score is being kept? If so this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is a MUST listen! You’ll learn the secret to the incredible performances of world class players, what’s happening inside their minds, and why it’s very different than most people think. Plus, you’ll hear a step by step plan to start overcoming your drops in performance during real tennis matches.

Ever heard the phrase “it’s like riding a bike” to describe something really easy to do once you learn how? Today’s episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast uncovers a vital improvement lesson that proves nothing could be more DIFFICULT than riding a bike when one simple variable changes. Understanding these principles is critical to improving absolutely any part of your tennis game!

Want to play your BEST just hours after completing a match in a tournament? This episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast will give you a simple 5 step formula that any player can execute at any level to quickly recover, recharge, and ramp up again for their next match. Topics include mental, tactical, hydration, and food intake so you can peak at exactly the right time and win more tennis tournament matches!

Do you always choose to “serve” after winning the spin before your matches? If so you’re often giving up a HUGE tactical advantage and likely missing a lot of queues that your opponent doesn’t want you to notice. That all stops today! This episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast will teach you the psychology, math, and tactics behind choosing whether to serve or receive after the racquet spin. You’ll never look at the end of your match warm ups the same way again.

Ready to take your tennis to the next level? Over the last 6 weeks I’ve spent a huge amount of time on the court with private and group students. This podcast pulls together all of the most important, impactful lessons that I learned alongside them! Included are actionable tips on how to prioritize your technique projects, why “weird is normal”, why quality is more important than quantity, and much more! Thanks for your patience and support of the Essential Tennis Podcast :-)

Has one of your tennis strokes fallen into a jerky, twitching mess of hitches and hiccups? If so you’re not alone, and this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast has the solution! You’ll learn how to regain confidence in your wayward stroke, find the smoothness you used to have, and finally break free to better habits.

Today’s guest has had her share of mental tennis challenges on her way to winning 17 Grand Slam trophies, two Olympic gold medals, and 69 career doubles titles on the pro tour! Gigi Fernandez opens up about her past struggles with angry outbursts on the court, the key mindsets and habits that turned it all around for her, and also the practical advice that she now gives her recreational level students who come to her for advice. Find out exactly what goes through the head of an elite, world class competitor on this special episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast so you can take what Gigi learned and apply it to your own game!

Do you hate playing tiebreakers in tennis? This episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast will arm you with the techniques, tactics, and mindsets needed to be successful! You’ll learn the two biggest mistakes players make that sabotage their chances of winning tiebreakers, the single most effective strategy to use, and even the mental toughness key needed to maximize your chances of winning. It’s time you learn how to WIN these critical points.

Picking on an opponent’s backhand can be one of the most effective tactics in all of tennis! In this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you’ll learn FIVE different plays that you can use to exploit the weak side of the players you square off against, including a wildcard that adds a tremendous amount of flexibility to how you’re able to keep them uncomfortable. Implement any one or two of them to gain the upper hand and win more matches now!

Do you have a tennis stroke that’s been stuck for weeks? Or maybe you feel like your whole game is in a rut even though you’ve been working hard to advance? This episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast has the solution! It outlines 5 simple but critical things that are needed to continue moving from level to level in the game of tennis. Unfortunately most players don’t take advantage of any of them, but that stops now!

If you’re constantly disappointed in your progress on the tennis court then this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is incredibly important to listen to. You’ll learn why your relationship to “left arrows” and “right arrows” explain whether or not you’ll be happy in tennis, how failures can lead to more fulfillment on the court, and why your perspective on the game at large has everything to do with which path you take year after year.

My junior year of NCAA tennis thrust me into a crazy situation that unexpectedly produced the best doubles of my life. In this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast I'll unpack the top 6 lessons I learned from my experience. Practical mindset, tactics, and strategy insights that you can implement in your very next doubles match!

What goes on in the mind of a great champion like Roger Federer? Is it all positivity, forward progress, and confidence? Nope! This episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast breaks down an insightful interview that Roger gave talking about being mentally fit. You’ll learn how it deals with nervousness, distractions, and what he feels is most important to strive for each and every time he steps onto a court. Hope you find these insights inspiring and easy to put into practice!

Ever win the first set of a tennis match 6-1 only to lose the next one 1-6? What’s up with that?! In this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you’ll learn why those shifts in momentum are actually much easier to come about than you think and what mindset you should have around lopsided scores has they travel back and forth. You’ll also learn exactly which singles and doubles patterns of play will insulate you the most from big momentum swings.

How many times per week should you be playing matches if you want to improve your tennis game? How about practicing or working out off the court? Mixing and matching those elements with the right ratios is critical to your ongoing development and in this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you’ll learn exactly how to do that. It’s time to work smarter, not harder, so you can maximize your efforts and break free to the next level!

All around the world tennis players perform much better in practice than they do in matches. Why? One of the biggest reasons is they bring their practice mindset with them into competition which severely limits their chances of winning! Today’s episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast clearly outlines exactly what you should be focusing on in practice and the big shift you should make when you walk onto the match court. Execute what you learn and you’ll win more tennis matches, period!

If your child is playing tennis, thinking about playing tennis, or you want them to give tennis a try then this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is critical to listen to! You’ll hear Ian talk about the biggest tennis parent blunders, how to approach motivating your child on the court, and what the biggest question is that needs to be asked before pursuing the sport seriously. You’ll also hear feedback from two other Essential Tennis coaches who worked in the world of high performance juniors for over a decade.

Are you a tennis “Tinkerer”, “Dabbler”, or “Hacker”? Most players fall into one of those three categories whether they know it or not which keeps them from the meaningful improvement that they crave! In this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you’ll learn the hallmarks of each player personality, why it's so easy to fall into those traps, and most importantly the keys to breaking free and getting on the path to mastery.

Hate playing lefties in tennis? This strategy podcast episode will give you the keys to success the very next time you face off against a dreaded southpaw! You’ll learn WHY left handed players have such an advantage on the court, which patterns you need to focus on to make them suffer as much as you do, and even how to position yourself and read their serves so you can return twice as effectively as you normally do. It’s all laid out step by step in this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast.

If your serve toss gives you fits (especially during matches) then this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is a must listen! You’ll learn step by step drills that will retrain your toss for precision and confidence. Plus, you’ll learn the methodology behind our teaching approach so you can apply the same principles to ANY other tennis skill. Not only will you come to understand how to train yourself or somebody else for mastery of a new and improved physical skill but also how to develop mental toughness and ability to execute when the pressure is on.

There’s a LOT of obsession among tennis players over the numbers next to their names. Unfortunately many of them are completely arbitrary! In this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you’ll learn the difference between useful ratings, useless ones, and how much you should really be comparing yourself to others. You’ll also learn what your “north star” should be in your training so you shoot for the right goals, make the best use of your time, and maximize your happiness.

This episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast features a very special guest: tennis data guru Craig O’Shannessy! Craig is the official strategy analysis for Wimbledon, the Australian Open, the ATP Tour, and the New York times just to name a few. Plus, he works directly with Novak Djokovic to help him create game plans that defeat the best opponents in the world. Listen as he applies what he’s learned to everyday players like you and me so we can be more successful on the court, win more matches, and have more fun.

A “tennis diary” is the perfect way to track your improvement, optimize your practice sessions, and troubleshoot your opponents so you can win more matches. In this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you’ll learn the top 5 things to track, record, and document to give you the best tennis results as fast as possible. A small time investment on your new diary can reap huge breakthroughs if you focus on the right things!

Ever get frustrated with your tennis development? Did you set out to make it to a certain level or play on a certain team but it feels like you’re stuck in a rut? If so this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is a critical listen because it discusses the importance of focusing on the right things to maintain your happiness and enjoyment of the sport. The wrong perspective can lead you down a path of dissatisfaction and anger, just like it did for me. Hopefully the stories told in today’s episode can help you shift your mindset and find more fulfillment in the sport you love!

If you’ve ever been cheated out of a point in tennis then this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is critical to listen to! You’ll learn how often bad calls are made (it’s probably a lot more than you think), how to deal with them in the middle of a match, and even what the “Nuclear Option” is for when things get really, really ugly. More than likely you’ll be surprised at what I have to say and what the other ET coaches think. If you play competitive tennis at all then don’t miss this coaching.

DON’T buy a new racquet until you listen to this podcast! You’ll learn if that new frame technology can actually provide additional power, spin, and accuracy or if it’s all marketing talk. You’ll also hear Ian’s recommendation for frame and string specs from beginner all the way up to advanced tennis players. Whether you’re in the market for a new frame or simply want to optimize what you already have this is the episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you’ve been waiting for!

If you’ve ever had a hitting partner, teammate, or any other peer razz you for working hard to make changes to your game then today’s episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is a must listen! Recently I’ve had several different VIP students of ours share stories about their peers making fun of their improvements efforts and I think a mindset check it critical to deflecting those kinds of comments. You’ll learn why you’re special, why understanding motivations is key, and how to stay focused on your own tennis goals.

Ever wonder what the pros are telling themselves during a match? Thanks to a sneaky courtside reporter now we know EXACTLY what Andy Murray was trying to keep in mind during one of his matches and the list he made for himself is super revealing! In this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast you’ll learn which of those 10 elements apply to you, which don’t, and what you should be focusing on during your next match.

If you've ever wondered how to BEST make use of a digital tennis training program then this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is a must listen! You'll learn the big mistakes most players make after signing up for online coaching plus a four step process to follow so you can make the most of your investment.

Ever take a great tennis lesson only to have all your improvements go down the drain in your next match? If so today’s episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is a MUST listen! Ian tells the story of a recent student who made incredible improvements only to have them disappear 24 hours later. You’ll learn what he did to fix the problem, what you can learn from that story, and three practical application points to help you continue your tennis advancement.

Today you’ll hear the story of one of our recent VIP students who was very much a “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” case. She had an unusual disconnect between her practice service swings and her “real” serves that provides a perfect illustration for tennis players and coaches everywhere. If you take improvement seriously then this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast is critical to understand because it explains why so much good information goes completely to waste on the court.

What’s your reaction when you break a string on your last racquet? Or you have a match on a windy day? Or your opponent has a style that you hate? We’re all faced with challenges every single time we step onto the court. The question is how do we respond! Today’s episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast features a story about the ET pros hitting outside for the very first time. Find out how Kevin dealt with breaking a string and what you can learn from his challenge.

Today’s special guest is best selling author, Ted X speaker, and Rio Olympic Games coach, Ed Tseng. He’s a mental performance consultant and tennis coach who has a dramatically more simple approach to mental tennis than the status quo. Together we tackle of of the most common tennis mental pitfalls including falling into a slump after winning the first set, dealing with negative or bossy doubles partners, how to navigate a match where our “Plan A” isn’t working, slow starts in matches, match related nerves, and much, much more. Hope you enjoy this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast!

Thousands of tennis players all over the world have heard me recommend a specific improvement tool that I’ve said over and over is the single most powerful thing they can do to advance their tennis game...but STILL haven’t done it! Today’s episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast tells the story of a specific student who finally pulled the trigger and is now reaping the rewards. Plus, you’ll learn how to take advantage of the technology he’s using.

Most tennis singles and doubles points end with an error! That means if you spend time minimizing them your results will improve which is exactly what this episode of the Essential Tennis Podcast will tell you how to do. You’ll learn exactly what an unforced error is, what causes them, and how to minimize them through proper training and mindset.

I recently had the privilege of watching a Roger Federer match up close and personal. It was on a day where his performance was well below his standards which made for an extremely instructive viewing experience, especially hearing his comments after the match. In this episode of the Essential Tennis podcast I’ll be breaking down what happened and sharing the 4 lessons that you can learn from his challenging day.

What causes tennis elbow and why don't professional players ever seen to get it in today's podcast episode.

So how would you prepare yourself mentally for an important match? I'll answer that question in today's podcast episode.

So how many racquets have I smashed in my tennis career? I'll answer that question in today's podcast episode and will also give some advice on keeping tennis in perspective with the rest of your life and controlling emotions and anger on the court.

"Two great singles tactics questions occupy today's episode of the podcast! First off I discuss what tactics patterns, and strategies are most essential when it comes to being successful in singles competition. Secondly I talk about how to approach a match tactically against a player who is obviously much stronger and you. What can you do to increase your chances of coming out on top? Find out!"

In today's episode I talk about three big ways that you can win more matches in your singles game: improving your singles practice, singles strategy, and mental game specifically for singles play. Improving even one of these areas will absolutely earn you more points, just image what would happen if you spend the time and effort to become better at all three!

Did you know that you can make more power and more spin without actually trying any harder? If that sounds impossible to you then you definitely need to listen to today's podcast! Ian talks about the power of relaxation and exactly how much you should be relaxing your arm and grip during a ground stroke. He also discusses the benefit of playing people who are weaker than you and how to deal with losing concentration during such matches.

Dr. Cohn is back for another great discussion about mental toughness in your tennis game! Together we discuss three different listener topics about avoiding disappointment on the tennis court. The first question has to do with the infamous "choke", how can we avoid giving up a big lead? Second we talk about getting angry or upset after missing shots during a match and thirdly we talk about being too nice and feeling sorry for your opponent!

On today's show Ian talks about three misconceptions relating to forehand improvement: one having to do with weight transfer, the second about taking the ball early, and the third about "staying low". He talks about all three, what plays should actually be doing in regards to each technical topic, and also delivers three different drills to work on your forehand!

If you want more topspin you should switch to a more extreme grip, right? Wrong! If you want to hit with more power you should "step in" and transfer your body weight through the shot, correct? Not necessarily. These are two misconceptions that are incredibly common but very often not the technical element that should be focused on to create great results in your forehand ground strokes. Listen to Ian describe exactly what is essential!

On today's show I talk about the top two reasons why people choke during a tennis match. More importantly than that I go over what you need to develop in order to avoid letting it happen to you and exactly how to do it! I also discuss the best way to catch your balance and prepare for a point immediately after hitting your serve. Find out how to earn a completely free set of string as well!

The mental game is such a make or break topic when it comes to your competitive tennis. Today I’m joined by Dr. Patick Cohn who helps me answer several listener questions about their mental game. Topics include: getting angry on court, playing in front of a crowd, and repeated double faulting.

Today I have a special guest on the Podcast: Dave “The Koz” Kozlowski. Koz has a huge passion for the game of tennis and has been around the sport his entire life. Listen to him give his thoughts on which is more important for ET listeners: power or control. How do you get control exactly? When should you add power?

One of the most difficult things in tennis is trying to hit while moving yourself urgently from one part of the court to another. How can we best move our feet to get to the right spot and coordinate that effort with our upper body to hit the best possible shot? Learn how on today's show! Also listen to Ian talk about using your court time wisely when your partner isn't as strong as you are.

Will, Yann, and Ian discuss tennis instruction and becoming a better player! You will hear them talk about the "modern footwork" videos that Will and Yann put out several months ago as well as a completely new course designed to improve your entire game called "Tennis Rx". During this week only you can access a completely free video course that Will and Yann put together by going to www.essentialtennis.com/rx!

Dr. Jack joins me back on the show! Together we answer four different listener questions about sports medicine relating to tennis. The first has to do with hydration which is incredibly important to your performance. What is best to drink and how? Next we talk about stretching to avoid injuries, and lastly we discuss compression shorts and ankle braces. All great information!

Some of the toughest shots in tennis are those that must be hit while on the run, trying to track down an offensive ball hit by your opponent. In today's episode of tennis instructions podcast you'll learn the four key areas of tennis that you need to develop in order to get as many of these types of shots back. Stop watching good shots travel past you in this tennis lesson, find out how!

Do you struggle hitting topspin on really low shots that are close to the net? Most people do and sometimes it's just better to play a slice or "push" type shot. Find out when this is best to do and how to do it! Also listen in on a discussion about singles tactics: should you play your opponents strength in order to attack to their weakness? Find out!

In today's show you will learn how good of a camera is necessary to analyze your own tennis technique. Also find out how to best film your strokes, get the video to your computer, edit it, and share it with your friends or tennis pro. Definitely don't miss this crash course in digital video for tennis improvement!

Stroke technique is only part of winning a tennis match. Being mentally tough and putting together a winning game plan are completely separate and even more important than technique a large percentage of the time. Today Ian talks about what is most important tactically to winning both singles and doubles matches. Start winning more matches with better tactics!

It's always the worst playing a long point, getting to the net, being rewarded with a high volley or overhead and then making an unforced error! On today's podcast you'll learn what the best technique is to hit high volleys firmly and consistently and also how exactly to move back for a tough overhead.

We've all seen tennis players get upset at themselves and just completely melt down on the court. Alright, lets be honest, we've all BEEN that player as well, right? Is it always a bad thing to get out some negative emotion? Should we always be calm and even? Today Ian talks to a guest who helps answer those questions.

Players are hitting the ball harder and more aggressively then they used to. This means that coming to the net can be a losing proposition unless you're smart about it! In today's show you will learn four main keys to attacking the net successfully even against a big baseline hitter. Also learn about handling high forehand ground strokes.

So exactly how much effect does the type of racket and strings that you're using have on your game? In today's show Ian interviews a Master Racket Technician to ask questions about switching frames, how well those new fangled strings really work, and what the pros are using on tour that can benefit us as well.

Do you head into your local gym only to be intimidated by the wide range of machines and weights available? Do you feel out of place next to the huge body builder-types? Fear not! Listen to Steve Beck of the Power of Fitness Podcast in iTunes as we talk about the best ways to increase your strength and power around the tennis court.

Through out the countless hours that I've spent teaching recreational level tennis players how to improve I've definitely seen patterns in the mistakes that they make. Today I talk about the three biggest, most common mistakes that rec players make in their technique. Find out what they are and make sure that you're on the right track! Ian also answers a question about using two different tosses for the first and second serves.

There is a lot of debate online about which forehand technique is the best: straight or bent arm. Today Ian talks about which he likes to teach and why. Other topics include staying positive in the face of losses on the tennis court as well as keeping your concentration when distractions are all around you.

After missing a first serve should you go right back to the same spot with your second serve or mix it up? Ian talks about three things to keep in mind when making this decision. The second question is all about seeking for approval from a coach, what is a good balance so that you're not distracted on the court? Lastly Ian discusses judging passing shots when you're at the net. Should you play ones that are close?

There are 3 simple yet incredibly important factors that completely decide whether or not you'll get to a ball comfortably, or even get to it at all around the court. On today's show learn what those things are and how you can improve them right away! Ian also talks about how the pros make so much power on their groundstrokes and serves, and why many recreational players do not even though they try super hard.

There are just some things that you should or shouldn't do when you're on a tennis court. Some are tradition, some are just good manners, but not all of these things are commonly known to all recreational tennis players. Ian also talks about what to develop next after achieving a great spin serve!

Is it possible that you could work super hard at your tennis game but never get beyond a certain level? What level would that be? In today's show Ian talks about different ability levels for different people, and how much natural athleticism plays a role in your improvement. He also answers a question about missing volleys while poaching in doubles, start making more!

So what do the pros do that set them apart from the rest of the world? Today Ashley Fisher spends some time with Ian telling him about the ins and outs of professional level doubles. Many listener questions are answered and they also discuss the newest product from Essential Tennis: Doubles Domination. Check out what free instructional downloads are available right now!

So many recreational players position themselves too close to the ball over and over again. Stop doing that! In today's show you'll learn two drills that you can do with a partner that will improve your judgement of where the ball is and your relationship to it after it bounces. Also learn how positioning yourself better for easy, short shots.

So many tennis players absolutely hate playing pushers: tennis players who put no pace on their shots and simply put everything back in play safely. Today Ian talks about what parts of your game need to be improved to start winning against these types of opponents. Ian also talks about dealing with low, short shots. Where should you aim these?

Ever get way ahead in either a singles or doubles match only to see your lead quickly slip away? Today Ian talks about the causes of these big momentum shifts as well as a three step process for avoiding them. By the end of today's show you'll know what to look for and how to prevent big swings in score from one side to the other

Listen in on part 2 of 2 in a discussion with gear expert Jeremy Plumley. Ian and Jeremy talk about using lead tape to create more spin, selecting the correct racket for certain types of players, and the differences that string gauges make.

Dr. Patrick Cohn is back on the podcast to talk about all things mental toughness! Along the way he and Ian discuss three different listener questions. The first one has to do with staying relaxed during tense moments in a match. The second deals with the difference between confidence and arrogance as well as how much of each is a good thing. Lastly they discuss what to think about during changeovers. Check out his own show: The Tennis Psychology Podcast on iTunes by clicking here!

Being able to chose the right gear and customize it exactly the way you want can make a huge difference on the court! On today's show Master Racket Technician Jeremy Plumley talks about three important topics: different types of strings along with their pros and cons, different fads in rackets such as extended lengths and heavy frames, and also using lead tape to change the balance of your racket. Part 1 of 2.

Would picking a target for a tennis shot ever lead to actually missing it? Today Ian answers that question and also talks about what factors should go into picking your targets as you play your matches. Also discusses is hitting the ball on the rise more aggressively while still maintaining control.

Whenever tennis players think of offense hitting the ball with power and pace definitely comes to mind first. Did you know that you can also create offense by using slice? On today's show Ian talks to Koz about how this is obtained and where recreational players can start using backspin to keep their opponents off guard.

Being comfortable at the net can introduce a whole new world of options and opportunities to you in singles. Having more solid volleys can obviously improve your doubles game as well! Listen to this episode of the podcast to learn what drills Ian uses to help his students improve at the net, 4 cooperative drills and 3 competitive ones.

Today I'm joined by Fitness Blog writer Steve Beck to talk about how to battle the heat during your summer tennis play. I also talk about changing your grip from one forehand or backhand to another, should you use the same grip on every topspin ground stroke or is switching a good idea? Is the continental grip the best to use for a forehand and backhand slice? Find out!