Are your down-the-line forehand shots reliable? Or do your attempts sail too wide or too far toward the center of your opponent's baseline?
The down-the-line shot calls for accurate placement because the target area is smaller than on a crosscourt forehand. One key to developing this accuracy is proper shoulder rotation during your backswing. Try to pivot your upper body so that your front shoulder points down the sideline where you are aiming. This alignment, combined with a good stance in which your feet are also squared off to the sideline, will make it much easier for you to place the ball accurately.
