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Written by John Debnam
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Tuesday, 12 December 2006 08:04 |
Don’t be predictable
You’ve played the same player a dozen times. At first you won most of the matches, but now your opponent has pulled even and has started to gain the advantage. Although neither of your games has changed significantly, there’s been a shift in the balance of power and you’re not sure why.
Most likely, your opponent has figured your game out and you haven’t adjusted. When you suspect that this is true, it’s important to:
• Recognize your own patterns – Identify the plays that you use over and over again. If your backhand volley always goes crosscourt and your second serve unfailingly lands in the same place, you will eventually become predictable to your opponent.
• Change things up – Once you recognize your patterns, make a point of changing them up early in your next match. For example, instead of hitting your usual attacking forehand down the line, try a short-angle putaway or a drop shot (particularly if you’re ahead in the game). And rather than aim every volley crosscourt, hit behind your opponent a few times to thwart his anticipation.
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