Bump-ups and bounce-downs

Setup

1. Each player has a racket and a red ball and a space of their own on the court.
2. A cone for each player near the net for the walking challenge.

How it runs

1. Bump-ups: tap the ball up off the strings to about head height. Count the streak.
2. Bounce-downs: push the ball down to the ground and keep it bouncing at waist height.
3. Mix it: one up, one down, then alternate sides of the racket.
4. Walk to the cone and back while bumping up; a drop means start the count again.
5. Finish with a 30-second challenge: everyone tries to beat their best score.

Coaching points

• Hold the racket low on the grip with a gentle squeeze.
• Keep the racket face flat and push with the arm, not a flick of the wrist.
• Watch the ball onto the strings every time.
• Small, quick steps to get under the ball.

Common mistakes

• Hitting too high and chasing the ball.
• Locking the knees and standing still.