Six ways to make practice more efficient.
1. Set objectives-ie I will hit 7 perfect forehand killshots out of 10 setups.
2. Set realistic objectives-if you have a poor forehand, don’t set a 10 out of 10 objective unless you are prepared to be disappointed! Start small and build to the 10 of 10!
3. Quality is more important than quantity. Endless drop and hits from stationary positions with poor mechanics in a practice session may not translate to better execution in a competitive match.
4. Use video for feedback! How do you know what you are doing unless you see what you are doing?
5. Get the best coach you can get, and that may not be anyone local. If you love your local coach, beg them to seek help if that coach is inexperienced! Many players I have seen over the years with all the talent in the world being guided by well-intentioned coaches teaching horrible technique or not understanding footwork or positioning. In almost every case the progress of that athlete was set back years by poor fundamentals. By the way-as a young coach starting out, I was guilty of those local limitations until I sought out more experienced coaches.
6. Write it down! Journal the practice to stimulate those gray cells!!
Go get’em tigers!!