In tennis, the Continental Grip is often called the “Universal Grip” because it allows you to hit various types of shots without having to change your hand position.
If you’ve ever heard a coach tell you to hold the racket like a hammer, they are talking about the Continental Grip.
How to Find the Continental Grip
To understand the grip, look at the handle of your racket. It is an octagon with eight flat sides, called bevels.
- Identify Bevel #2: Hold the racket edgewise (perpendicular to the ground). The top flat surface is Bevel #1. The small slanted surface to the right (for righties) or left (for lefties) is Bevel #2.
- The “V” Placement: Place the “V” shape formed by your thumb and index finger directly over Bevel #2.
- The Heel Pad: The base of your palm (the heel pad) should also rest on Bevel #2.
The “Hammer” Test: If you hold the racket and can comfortably mimic the motion of hammering a nail into a wall with the edge of the frame, you’ve got it.
When to Use It
While most players use a different grip (like the Semi-Western) for forehands to generate topspin, the Continental Grip is mandatory for several key areas of the game:
- The Serve: It allows for maximum wrist snap and the ability to hit flat, slice, or kick serves.
- Volleys: Since net play is fast, using one grip for both forehand and backhand volleys is essential.
- Overheads: Similar to the serve, it provides the necessary power and angle.
- Slices: It is the standard grip for hitting backhand or forehand slices (underspin).
- Defensive Shots: It’s great for reaching wide balls or “digging” out low balls near the feet.
Why It’s Challenging for Beginners
Most beginners instinctively use a “pancake” grip (Western or Eastern Forehand) because it makes it easier to push the ball over the net. Switching to the Continental Grip can feel “weak” at first because the racket face is more open, but mastering it is the single biggest step toward moving from a beginner to an intermediate player.
Without this grip, it is physically impossible to develop a high-level professional serve.