How To Hit A Kick (Topspin) Serve

A common question coaches hear is “how do I hit a topspin or kick serve? Adding this shot for competitive juniors or for 4.0 and above players, can dramatically enhance the effectiveness of a serve. 

 How do you put spin on the ball? The “secret” key is to use your legs. With the proper stance, a slight back bend and good knee bend, you can put plenty of topspin on the serve. The best “kick (topspin) servers” in the world incorporate a simple checklist of tips that you can try:

•   Use a continental or backhand grip (modify accordingly, but no “frying pan” grip)

•   Toss back over your head (find a comfortable range that works for you)

• Stand sideways (perpendicular) to the baseline

•  Bend your knees (exploding up to the ball will increase spin intensity)

•  Keep your tossing arm and head up (to maintain power-load prior to impact) 

• Swing up and out across the back of the ball (use “the clock” – for right handed players imagine starting at 6pm going up to 2pm) 

 IMPORTANT SAFETY RULE: These tips are intended for the more advanced players, so to avoid serious injury to your back; do not throw the ball too far over your head. This can cause over-arching to your back. Practice a toss that works within a comfortable range of motion.