The Handbook of Tennis

The Handbook of Tennis is an unrivalled manual which provides a complete coaching course encompassing every aspect of playing tennis. Illustrated with hundreds of photographs and step-by-step drawings, it shows how to become expert in every stroke and in every department of the game. Paul Douglas, one of Britain's foremost professional coaches, has compiled this Handbook for those who are eager to improve their game, whatever their standard of play. The major part of the book is a practical illustrated guide to the techniques of playing the strokes. Every major stroke is described in detail and its components analyzed so that faults can be recognized and rectified. There is a comprehensive section on courtcraft and tactics in both the singles and doubles games, and in later sections Paul Douglas describes how to adapt the game to suit changing circumstances, such as weather conditions and different court surfaces. He also gives practical advice on fitness and training, on tennis injuries and treatments and in the section on winning emphasizes the importance of effective mental attitude towards match play.