Second Edition · Chapter 3 Assessment · Original Test 4.11
Assesses coordinated total-body power through a medicine-ball throw modeled on the tennis serve.
Test Demonstration
Watch the movement, then follow the book’s full procedure and measurement instructions for a formal assessment.
Equipment
6 lb (2.72 kg) medicine ball, tape measure and stopwatch.
Test Procedure
Complete three practice throws before assessment. Retain ball mass, starting stance, throwing direction and the selected scored-attempt count. Allow 90 seconds recovery between assessed throws; choose and record the scoring rule before testing.
Stand behind the baseline in a ready-to-serve stance, body perpendicular to the baseline. Hold the ball with both hands behind the head; jump diagonally toward the net and throw toward the service box for maximum distance. Record flight time and distance from the baseline to first ground contact.
Result And Scoring
Record throw distance in metres and flight time in seconds as separate results. The original calculation does not establish mechanical power in watts; baseline distance divided by flight time is not release velocity. Compare throws made under matching conditions.
Video Demonstration Note
The studio clip uses a bilateral, largely square stance and shows the jump and overhead release. It does not reproduce the book’s side-on court setup or show the baseline, service box, first ground contact or measurement.
Training Connections
Use the performance preparation guidance in Chapter 4 of the Second Edition before the three practice throws. Return to the assessment overview for related demonstrations.
From The Tennis Book
4.11 MB Serve Throw Test in Advanced Concepts of Strength & Conditioning for Tennis. Use the book’s full protocol when recording a test result.