1 player · Beginner · 8 min
Serve toss and catch
Rehearse a repeatable service toss without a full serve or a hurried swing.
Rackets + balls
1 player · Beginner · 12 minutes
Serve placement ladder
Alternate wide and central targets without chasing power.
- Equipment
- rackets, balls
- Space
- One tennis court with clear run-off space
- Suggested block
- 12 minutes; allow at least 6
Drill instructions
Purpose & setup
Alternate wide and central targets without chasing power.
A begins behind the near deuce baseline. Split the opposite diagonal service box into a wide half T1 and a centre half T2 in your mind.
How to play
- Serve at T1. Retrieve the ball when it has stopped; keep the court clear.
- Serve at T2 next, alternating targets for six attempts, including misses.
- Change to the ad side and mirror both targets for the next six attempts.
- Continue alternating six-attempt rounds until time ends; finish the current serve.
Scoring or success
One point for the called target, zero for a miss or the other half. Try to beat your previous six-attempt total. This is a custom practice game.
Rotation & roles
Solo: alternate T1/T2 every attempt and serving side after six attempts. Retrieval is part of the round.
Make it easier
Move closer and use a slower, comfortable ball speed.
Add a challenge
Use a smaller target while keeping the same rotation and scoring.
Mixed levels
Not applicable: solo activity.
Safety & spacing
Keep spare balls and equipment outside playing routes. Call shared balls, leave room for swings and retrieve only after the ball is dead. Use a comfortable pace and stop rather than chasing into another player or court.
Follow the illustrated instructions. No video has been published for this activity.
Sources & editorial status
Editorial review needed: original practice rules and diagram, not coach-approved. These are optional practice rules, not official competition rules. References support general tennis guidance; they do not endorse this format.
- USTA: Tennis tips and instruction — General coaching reference; does not validate these custom games.
- LTA: Improve your game — General learning resource; custom rotations and scoring require review.