Improve your game: Develop a serve ritual

The serve is the only shot in tennis where you have complete control becaue you start the point by sending instead of receiving the ball. As you enter competition, establishing a service ritual or routine can ensure you take time and find your focus before each point.

Your service ritual can be as simple as bouncing the ball three times before starting your service motion or rocking side to side, breathing out — anything that forces you to take your time before hitting the serve will help you get a sense of control and focus. Find what is comfortable for you and make it a habit no matter what the score. A consistent routine will lead to a more consistent serve.
 

Ben Zaiser is a head tennis professional at the USTA National Campus at Lake Nona in Orlando, Fla.