Try this exercise:
Choke up on your racket until your fingers are behind the strings. Stand close to the net and have someone throw balls to you that you hit back while you are choked up on the racket. Continue doing this as you move your hand down the racket until you're holding the grip normal. Now do the same thing on the backhand volley by choking up so that your thumb is behind the strings. This exercise should give you the sense of punching instead of swinging on your volleys.
Lets test your knowledge on volleys.
#1. If you are not switching grips from forehand to backhand on your volleys what grip should you use? Answer - Continental
#2. In doubles you are able to hit a volley, what direction should you hit. Answer - hit past the closest opponent.
#3. The ball is coming hard at your mid section. What shot would be best for you to hit. Answer - one handed backhand volley.
#4. When preparing to hit a volley what should your feet be doing? Answer - split step.
We have talked about how to improve your volleys by punching instead of swinging and included a drill to help you get the feel of a good solid punch volley. We have covered four very important actions that need to take place when volleying the ball. Take these lessons and implement them into your game and you will be a better volleyer.
