Closed-stance: Toes are pointed towards the side fence.

Open-stance: Toes are pointed more towards the net.

When discussing open stance vs. closed stance, I think back to when I was a junior and we had only one choice. Many players played with continental grips on every shot and only the closed-stance position. With the advent of faster courts, 2-handed backhands, more powerful rackets and less recovery time, the open-stance is much better suited for today's younger players.

If you are more of a senior player, do not give up on your closed-stance or grip. If you are a junior or just starting, I would strongly urge you to consider the open-stance.

There are many advantages to an open-stance, such as:

• Immediate recovery.

• It forces your back hip to turn to into the ball allowing you to hit with your legs.

• It minimizes how far you can take your racket back.

• It is easier to change direction after hitting the ball.

• It is easier to return balls hit near or at you, for example, serves hit into your body.

I teach both stances to my students and allow them to use the one they like the best.

Good luck on the courts!