The ready position is fundamental to tennis.

It gets your body set up to return serve, play groundstrokes and make volleys.

It allows you to push off to the ball with maximum acceleration in as short a time as possible.

It also starts the shot off technically - if your ready position is wrong then you have little chance with the rest of the shot.

Both hands need to start on the racquet, this allows quick grip changes and stronger, earlier body rotation for the shot.

Your feet need to be at least shoulder width apart with your head forwards into the court.

Bend your knees slightly, this lowers your centre of gravity and stores energy in your muscles.

As your opponent strikes the ball try to bounce onto your toes for extra spring in your legs.

The timing of this is crucial.

It's difficult to master but if you get it right it will allow you to accelerate in any direction at maximum speed the moment you see the ball.

After hitting the ball return to the centre of the court and the ready position as soon as possible.