Service: jump serve and float serve

In this video, you will learn about two types of overhand jumping serve.

We're going to look at how to perform a jump serve and a float serve.

First up is the jump serve.

Position yourself 2 to 3 metres behind the baseline and look at the area you want to aim the ball at

Toss the ball high into the air in front of you with your hitting hand.

Move towards the ball, following its movement with your eyes, and accelerate on the last two steps before the jump.

Be careful not to step on the baseline or inside the court as this is considered a foul.

Jump upwards and forwards, arching your body, and pointing your free arm towards the ball to keep your balance while in the air.

Prepare your hitting arm by bringing your elbow back, raised above your shoulder.

Swing your hitting arm upward and forwards and hit the ball with your hand held flat and your arm outstretched.

Keep your wrist supple. Bend it at the moment of contact to increase the rotation and speed of the ball.

Aim for the top of the net and follow through with your serving movement, staying in contact with the ball for as long as possible.

Next up, the float serve

Position yourself 1 to 3 metres behind the baseline, toss the ball, and jump just like in the previous example.

Hit the centre of ball swiftly with your hand held flat. Keep your hitting arm outstretched and your wrist straight.

Stop your arm as soon as you make contact with the ball and don't allow it to drop down towards your hips.

Hold your jump and don't follow the ball forward to obtain a floating, knuckleball effect.

You can use this serve to surprise your opponent as the ball's trajectory is often unpredictable.

Jumping serves are difficult to master, so don't get discouraged and get practicing. Over to you!