The following six shot sequence identifies key elements within the serve (as demonstrated by the redoubtable Roger) but importantly – these elements are part and parcel of a fluid and effortless delivery
And a definition – I am calling UP and Down the moment when the racquet head is UP and the body is DOWN
And I am calling DOWN and UP the moment when the racquet head is down the the body has moved (powerfully) UP
Take special notice of the last two photos in the sequence below – they highlight the role of elastic energy – where the racquet head drops (lazily) as the legs thrust the body up
You key is to be as loose and relaxed as possible during the transition from Up and Down to Down and UP
(I am hoping these words, though on the surface confusing, may actually simplify this action)
Tell me if it worked
Toss released at eye level, tossing arm turned to the side
Toss rising, Fed keeps his weight back
Knee bend starts to increase, Fed now evenly balanced on both legs
Nearing the explosive move – but not yet
Up and Down – the racquet head is UP, and he is fully DOWN
Snap – everything reverses – the racquet drops DOWN as Fed explodes UP – elastic energy flows to the shoulder and rotator cuff
Thank you for a marvelous video. Thank you for stating Serena Williams feet come off the court a little while most coaches suggest jumping. This was also nice of you to point out she makes ball contact at high noon on the clock.