Skip to content

8 — Figure-8

How do I regulate power? The racket traces a continuous figure-8. No pause at the top = continuous SSC loading.

The Rule

Continuous figure-8 loop. Crossover = amortization. Small 8 = power. Big 8 = control.

Why It Matters

  • Continuous motion = continuous SSC = free elastic energy
  • Pause at top = broken SSC = muscled forward swing
  • Figure-8 size regulates power without changing swing mechanics

Key Cue

"Small 8, hard brake."

Training Drill

  1. Shadow figure-8 with ball on string — feel the continuous loop
  2. Wall rally — maintain figure-8 at increasing speeds
  3. Variable power drill — small 8 for drops, big 8 for drives

Common Errors

  • Pause at trophy position: Kills SSC, forces arm acceleration
  • Straight back, straight through: No SSC loading, no regulation
  • Figure-8 too large: Late contact, timing issues

Chapter 13: Figure-8 Regulation →