How to keep the block soft

Daniele Astarita Asked 13 years ago

HI,

how is it possible o develop a very good "soft" block. I mean capable of absorbing the power of an attacking shot, while at the same time being able to direct the return to the desired position. Thanks in advance  

Alois Rosario Answered 13 years ago

Hi Daniele,

It is about keeping your hand soft when you are making the block.  There is a trade off between softness and too relaxed where you don't have control over the racket.

You still need to be able to control the head of the racket but absorb the speed with the softness in your hand.

It is often difficult to keep the hand soft when the ball is coming fast because we tighten up when we see the speed of the ball.  The more you see the ball coming at that speed the easier it is to remain relaxed.  I guess it comes down to practice and experience again.