THE DYNAMIC VS SET & UNLOAD GROUNSTROKE

 


More and more matches today hinge on just a few special moments, such as a loose shot that your opponent can take advantage of or one player pulling off a miraculous winner from almost nowhere.

These situations occur frequently in today's highly competitive environment. It is becoming less about a technical or physical problem and more about a player's shot selection during important moments of the point.

“…today…(losing the point) is becoming 
less about a technical or physical problem…”

I’ve begun to see two distinct types of groundstrokes players are being asked to play during a point. I’m beginning to call these two types of groundstrokes the “Dynamic” and the “Set & Unload” options.

Characteristics of a Dynamic Groundstroke:

A Dynamic Groundstroke is any ball that doesn’t allow you time to set up and will be mostly hit while on the move or when you're at a disadvantage.

If you are compromised in any way, you're 
playing a Dynamic Groundstroke

Imagine you have to play your next stroke on the run; in one of the baseline corners.

You will most likely have to play the shot on the move and continue your momentum through the contact and somehow recover after the stroke to return to the centre of the court.

This is a dynamic groundstroke, it needs to be no less effective than a "standard" groundstroke because your opponent has already created an advantage with this ball and your response will determine whether you can neutralise your opponent's advantage or not.

The characteristics of a Dynamic Groundstroke includes:

1. Fluid Movement: If you need to perform a stroke on the move and can’t set up
for a "standard” stroke.

If you can't set up for an
optimal groundstroke...

2. A Focus on Balance: This is a stroke where balance is the paramount requirement. You may fall back off the shot to give yourself a swing and space to operate.

3. Quick Recovery: After executing this shot, the player may need to rapidly return to a central court position, ready for the next shot.

4. A Combination of These; All the above can be needed in various combinations, the point is that you're doing what's needed in the different situations. This is not a YouTube video clip when the player is in the perfect position, hitting the perfect ball.

Dynamic groundstrokes are any situation where you’re dealing with a difficult ball, keeping the rally alive or trying to maintain court positioning. It’s the shot that allows players to stay in the point when under pressure, and it’s needed more and more today.

Your goal must be to stay in the point. 

The “Set & Unload” Groundstroke

The “Set & Unload” Groundstroke occurs when a player has some time on the ball, and they have their positioning under control.

With time at your disposal, you can Set
and Unload a stroke 

When you have a “Set & Unload” Groundstroke, you need to take advantage of it and hit with either precision, targeting specific areas of the court, and/or power, and take control of the rally.

Every “Set & Unload” opportunity you get is a green light to attack the point. The more “Set & Unload” opportunities you create for yourself, and take advantage of during the rally the stronger your game will be.

With extra time you can "go big" by hitting
a target or adding more power

Characteristics of a Set and Unload Groundstroke:

1. Preparation: The Set & Unload means you have made time for yourself, achieved balance, and be in a safe position on the court. 

2. Targeted Precision: Because of this preparation you can begin hitting specific spots on the court, such as the baseline corners or any other area that exploits your opponent’s weakness.

3. Controlled Power: Power can be one of the primary factors with a “Set & Unload” groundstroke because that split second of time you have will allow you to “do more” with the ball.

The Set & Unload groundstroke will come from the pressure you exert.

 

The Importance of Shot Selection

Understanding when to employ a Dynamic Groundstroke versus a Set and Unload Groundstroke is a skill that separates good players from great ones. During a point, players must evaluate their opponent's court position, their own positioning, and the quality of the incoming ball to decide which of the two stroke options to execute.


Key Considerations:

1. Timing: Are you moving or already set? If you're on the move, opt for a Dynamic Groundstroke to maintain balance and recovery.

2. Court Positioning: Are you in a strong, neutral, or defensive position? A Set and Unload Groundstroke is most effective from a stable, offensive position.

3. Opponent's Positioning: A Set and Unload Groundstroke can help finish the point or gain a decisive advantage if your opponent is out of position.

 
Developing Instinctive Decision-Making

Understanding when to employ a Dynamic Groundstroke versus a Set and Unload Groundstroke is a skill that separates good players from great ones.

For competitive players, the ability to switch between these two groundstroke types must become instinctive. This instinct is honed through deliberate practice, where players simulate point scenarios and train their shot selection under varying conditions.

 

Final Thoughts

Shot selection during a baseline rally is as much about mental clarity as it is about which shot to play. 

By mastering the art of recognising when to play a Dynamic Groundstroke and when to unleash a Set and Unload Groundstroke, players can elevate their rally game to new heights.

When employed effectively, These two distinct stroke options will ensure better shot selection and give players the edge they need to perform better in matches.

 

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