Soft tennis is a fun and beginner friendly sport that’s quickly growing in popularity worldwide. Played with a soft rubber ball and a lightweight racket its a gentler version of traditional lawn tennis perfect for people of all ages, especially those new to racket sports. Whether you’re a student a fitness enthusiast or just looking for a new hobby soft tennis offers a simple low pressure way to enjoy the game.
In this beginners guide well break down the top techniques to master soft t step by step. From learning the correct grip to improving your footwork you’ll discover everything you need to get started confidently and improve quickly. Lets dive into the world of soft tennis and build your skills from the ground up.
What is Soft Tennis?
Soft tennis is a sport similar to lawn tennis but played with a soft rubber ball instead of a hard one. It originated in Japan and is now popular across Asia and gaining traction worldwide. Unlike regular tennis is more focused on control strategy and agility than on power.
The rackets are lighter the movements are smoother and the overall pace of the game is more relaxed. Because of its simple rules and low impact style is now enjoyed by people all over Asia and is slowly gaining fans around the world.
Top Soft Tennis Techniques for Beginners?
Now lets break down the most important skills you should learn first.
Forehand Stroke
The forehand is your most basic and most used stroke.
How to Do It
- Stand sideways
- Bring your racket back
- Swing forward and hit the ball
- Follow through towards the direction you want the ball to go
Backhand Stroke
The backhand can be tough at first but its very important.
Steps
- Stand sideways
- Use both hands or one based on comfort
- Swing from low to high
- Keep eyes on the ball
Serve
Serving starts every point. A good serve gives you the upper hand.
Tips for Beginners
- Toss the ball lightly
- Keep your eye on the ball
- Hit with a gentle but controlled motion
Volley
A volley is when you hit the ball before it bounces.
Why Its Useful
- Surprises opponents
- Quick and powerful
Technique
- Stand close to the net
- Use short swings
- Keep the racket in front
Footwork Drills
Footwork helps you reach the ball quickly.
Drills to Practice
- Side to side shuffle
- Front back footwork
- Ladder drills
- Jump rope for light feet
These drills improve your balance and speed.
Key Features of Soft Tennis
- Uses soft rubber balls
- Played with lighter rackets
- Emphasis on technique over power
- Great for all age groups
- Less risk of injury
To learn more about the international rules of the game visit the International Soft Tennis Federation.
How to Improve Faster in Soft Tennis?
Here are a few bonus tips to help you grow quickly in soft tennis easy guides and tutorials.
Join a Club or Class
Training with a coach or team helps a lot. Many clubs have special beginner sessions.
Record Your Practice
Watch yourself play and notice what you can improve.
Set Small Goals
Work on one skill at a time. Don’t rush to learn everything at once.
Stay Positive and Consistent
Improvement takes time so be patient and practice regularly.
Benefits of Learning Soft Tennis?
Soft tennis is more than just a fun game it helps you stay fit focused, and happy.
Physical Benefits
- Better coordination
- Improved stamina
- Flexibility and agility
Mental Benefits
- Reduces stress
- Builds focus
- Teaches discipline
Getting Started with Soft Tennis?
Beginner Steps
- Join a local club or school program find Soft Tennis Federation of Your Country.
- Acquire racquet and inflatable rubber balls.
Training Focus
- Master basic strokes serve variations and footwork.
- Practice doubles formations and court positioning.
Progression Tips
- Watch ISTF match footage or training videos e.g via YouTube.
- Attend workshops or camps hosted by ISTF member associations.
Essential Equipment for Soft Tennis Beginners?
Before diving into techniques you need to have the right gear. Heres what you’ll need.
Soft Tennis Racket
Lightweight and flexiblethese rackets allow for better control.
Soft Rubber Balls
These are slower and bounce less, making the game easier to learn.
Proper Footwear
Shoes with good grip and ankle support are essential for safe movement.
Comfortable Sportswear
Breathable clothing allows better movement and comfort during matches.
Warm Up and Basic Body Movement Soft tennis?
Warming up is very important in soft tennis to prevent injury and get your body ready.
Easy Warm Up Exercises
- Arm and shoulder stretches
- Light jogging for 5 minutes
- Wrist rotations
- Short sprints with direction changes
Basic Body Movement Tips
- Stay on your toes
- Always face the net
- Keep knees slightly bent
- Use small quick steps to adjust your position
These movements will help you be quick and ready on the court.
Gripping the Racket Correctly?
Your grip is your connection to the game. In soft tennis the right grip helps you hit the ball accurately.
Most Common Grip
Shakehands Grip like shaking someone’s hand.
Tips for the Perfect Grip
- Don’t grip too tight
- Fingers should wrap around the handle
- Your thumb should support the back of the handle
This grip helps control and reduces the chances of injury.
Practicing Soft Tennis Alone
Yes, you can practice soft tennis even when you’re alone!
Solo Practice Tips
- Use a practice wall to hit against
- Shadow swing in front of a mirror
- Do footwork drills in your backyard
- Watch training videos
Solo practice builds muscle memory, which is very important for beginners.
Playing with a Partner
Once you’re confident with the basics, try playing short games with a partner.
Partner Practice Ideas
- Forehand/backhand rallies
- Serve and return
- Practice volleys at the net
Always give each other feedback and improve together.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them?
Every beginner makes mistakes. Don’t worry theyre part of learning.
Swinging Too Hard
Fix: Focus on accuracy not power.
Standing Too Still
Fix Keep moving your feet.
Wrong Grip
Fix Practice holding the racket right every time.
Conclusion
Soft tennis is the perfect starting point for anyone looking to explore racket sports in a fun and low pressure way. Its softer ball lighter equipment and focus on technique rather than strength make it highly accessible for beginners of all ages. Whether you’re practicing alone playing with a partner or joining a local club soft tennis offers a gentle learning curve and plenty of room to grow your skills.
By mastering basic techniques like the forehand, backhand proper grip and footwork you can build a strong foundation and gain confidence on the court. With regular practice and the right mindset, you’ll not only improve quickly but also enjoy the physical and mental benefits of this amazing sport.
FAQs
Is soft tennis good for kids?
Yes Its gentle fun and easy to learn.
How is soft tennis different from lawn tennis?
It uses a soft rubber ball lighter racket and focuses more on control.
Can adults learn soft tennis too?
Absolutely Its great for adults who want low impact exercise.
Do I need a coach to start playing?
Not always You can begin by practicing alone and watching videos.
How long does it take to get good?
With regular practice you can see improvement in 1-2 months.
