Although clay courts are not very common in the UK, it is worth noting that one in three professional tournaments are played on a clay courts. 

So what is a clay court? 
The surface itself is not actually clay as this would be unplayable as it would hold far to much moisture. Most clay courts are constructed using a solid limestone base and are dressed with crushed red brick. 

What are the differences when playing on a clay court?
Clay courts make the ball behave very differently, because of the loose dressing covering the court the surface is not perfectly flat which may cause the ball to bounce higher or lower in different areas. Clay courts are alot slower than hard or grass courts which make rallies lasts longer meaning greater endurance is needed. The surface also changes alot in different weather, the ball will bouncer faster and higher in hot dry weather and lower and slower in damp conditions. Players need to be constantly ready for the bounce of the ball to suddenly change. 

What tactics should I use on a clay court? 
A variety of shots are required on a clay court, because everything is slower it’s alot more difficult to create an unreturnable winner from the back of the court. Players need to get to grips with hitting different angles and moving their opponent around the court, being patient and waiting for the right opportunity to finish the point. Top spin works very well on clay courts, because of the loose dressing the ball bites into the ground making the ball kick up more than on grass and hard courts. Most professionals stand further back on clay to allow the ball to drop below shoulder height so that they can generate more power. Sliding around the court is essential in order to get to tougher balls and players need to practise timing their slides and finishing in a strong position in order to make a good recovery. 

How can playing on court improve my game? 
Clay courts improve decision making , mental toughness and endurance. Players learn to be more patient and to use a variety of different shots in order to win points. Clay is a softer surface to is less stressful on the body than other courts.

 
New clay courts have just opened at David Lloyd Southampton why not come along and give them a go. Click here to go to our coaching page.