Learning tennis is fun and exciting, but beginners often repeat the same mistakes that slow down improvement. The good news? Most tennis beginner mistakes are easy to fix with proper guidance.
If you’re new to tennis and want a complete roadmap, visit HAC20.com — Your Tennis Learning Hub.

1. Holding the Racquet Incorrectly

One of the most common tennis beginner mistakes is using the wrong grip. Many beginners squeeze the racquet too tightly or hold it flat like a frying pan, which limits control and generates weak shots.

✔ How to Fix It

Start with the Eastern Forehand Grip, which feels natural for most players. For serves and volleys, use the Continental Grip — this positions the wrist correctly for advanced shots later.

2. Swinging With Only the Arm

Beginners often believe power comes from the arm. In reality, tennis power comes from using the entire body — hips, legs, core, and shoulder rotation.

✔ How to Fix It

Imagine turning your body like a spring. Step into the ball, rotate your shoulders, and swing smoothly. This adds effortless power and prevents arm pain.

3. No Footwork or Standing Flat-Footed

Standing still reduces reaction time and creates late hits. Good footwork is more important than good strokes — you cannot hit well without being in the right position.

✔ How to Fix It

Stay light on your toes and use the split-step every time your opponent hits the ball. This tiny hop activates your legs and improves balance.

Practice moving forward, backward, and sideways quickly — movement is 50% of tennis.

4. Trying to Hit Too Hard

Beginners often chase power before they learn technique, causing errors, mishits, and balls flying out of the court.

✔ How to Fix It

Slow your swing down and focus on clean contact, height, and direction.
Aim for 70% power — controlled shots win more points than wild power swings.

5. Hitting the Ball Too Short

Short balls bounce high and give your opponent easy opportunities to attack.

✔ How to Fix It

Aim deeper. Use a higher arc over the net and target the last 3–5 feet before the baseline.
Deep shots are safer and keep you in control of the point.

6. Poor Serve Technique

Most beginners simply throw the ball and hit it without proper mechanics. This causes double faults, weak serves, and frustration.

✔ How to Fix It

Start with a consistent toss — this is the foundation of every good serve.
Stand sideways, rotate your shoulders, and finish with a full follow-through.

Practice 50 tosses a day without hitting.
Consistency begins with technique, not strength.

7. Standing Too Close to the Baseline

This is a very common tennis beginner mistake. Standing too close gives you little time to react to fast shots, especially on returns.

✔ How to Fix It

Stand 1–2 feet behind the baseline for safer positioning. This gives you time to judge the ball and prepare a proper swing.

8. Bad Ball Toss

A bad toss ruins the serve — even professionals struggle when their toss is off.

✔ How to Fix It

Your toss should go straight up with minimum spin and land slightly inside the baseline.
Practice tossing the ball with your palm open and fingers relaxed.

9. Practicing Without a Plan

Random hitting does not lead to fast improvement. Beginners who just “hit for fun” often stay stuck for months.

✔ How to Fix It

Use structured beginner drills:

• Wall rallies

• Cross-court forehands

• Mini-tennis warmups

• Serve toss drills

• Footwork ladder movements

Consistency + structure = faster improvement.

10. Using the Wrong Gear

Heavy racquets, dead strings, or old tennis balls make learning more difficult.

✔ How to Fix It

Use a light beginner racquet (260–280g) with a medium-sized head.
Use low-compression balls for better control.

The right gear gives you confidence and cleaner shots.

🏁 Conclusion — How Beginners Can Avoid These Tennis Mistakes

These tennis beginner mistakes are normal, but fixing them early can help you improve 2× faster. Focus on technique, movement, and consistency.
For more beginner guides, drills, and tips, explore HAC20.com — Your Tennis Learning Hub.

❓ FAQs About Tennis Beginner Mistakes

1. What is the biggest tennis mistake beginners make?

Using the wrong grip and having poor footwork.

2. How can beginners get better faster?

By using structured drills, consistent practice, and proper technique.

3. Do I need expensive gear to start?

No — a lightweight beginner racquet is perfect.

4. How do I improve my serve as a beginner?

Start with toss consistency and correct body rotation.

5. Can footwork improve my overall game?

Absolutely — footwork affects timing, power, and control.

For official tennis rules, visit the USTA website.