Finding a tennis partner who is available at the right time can be a real challenge. Fortunately, you don't need a partner to make progress. Solo training is an excellent opportunity to focus on your technique, physical conditioning, and mental game without the pressure of a rally. With discipline, the court becomes your laboratory for foundational work that will pay off.

The Wall, Your Best Friend

If you have access to a wall, you have a tireless partner. The wall is the most effective tool for working on repetitive movements and consistency.

• Working on consistency: Hit balls at a moderate intensity, always aiming for the same area on the wall. Alternate between forehand and backhand. The goal is not power, but fluidity and repetition.

• Precision: Draw targets on the wall (or use cones) and try to hit them. Vary the zones to get used to hitting balls at different heights and angles.

• Volleys and serves: Stand close to the wall to work on volleys, hitting short and fast shots in a row. For the serve, stand behind the baseline and serve against the wall, aiming for the ball to bounce in the opponent's service box.

Training Without a Racket: Physical and Mental

Tennis isn't just about hitting the ball. Good physical conditioning and mental preparation are essential. These aspects can be worked on solo, even without a ball.

• Footwork: "Shadow tennis" involves simulating shots and movements without a ball. Repeat your footwork (shuffle steps, crossover steps) as if you were in the middle of a match. This strengthens your muscles, improves your agility, and makes your footwork more fluid.

• Visualization: Sit on a bench and close your eyes. Visualize yourself hitting your perfect forehand or backhand. Imagine every step of the motion, from the preparation to the contact with the ball, all the way to the follow-through. This practice reinforces muscle memory and helps you correct technical flaws.

Drills with a Ball Basket

If you're lucky enough to have a ball basket, your possibilities expand considerably.

• Serving practice: The serve is the only shot where you have total control. Take 20 balls and serve them all in a row, focusing on placement, power, or the type of spin (kick, slice).

• Repetitions: Stand at the baseline with your basket. Toss a ball up and hit it with a forehand. The goal is to repeat the same motion dozens of times to make it automatic. You can then do the same for your backhand and for approaching the net.

Conclusion: The Secret to Progress

Training alone in tennis is far from a waste of time. It's the ideal opportunity to focus on your weaknesses, perfect your technique, and improve your physical conditioning, without the distraction of a match. The discipline you develop from working solo will make you stronger on the court, and that is often the key to reaching the next level.