Tennis Training Hack: SKLZ Soft Toss Machine

Tennis Technology and Training

The sports training company SKLZ sells a “Catapult Soft Toss” machine that is positioned as a baseball/softball trainer. I have one that I have repurposed for tennis training. It is a pretty good substitute for working on striking hand fed balls. Additionally it is highly portable. I have carried it in my checked baggage while on business travel for those occasions when I stay at a hotel with nearby tennis courts, but no backboard.

Here is a video of one drill that I sometimes do with this device.

First, let me answer the obvious question, which is do I ever use the machine while actually running. That is my peak speed, kids. I was never quick as a junior and now I am a little old lady. Also, it was hot that day and that was toward the end of my workout.

Obviously the rate of feeds from the machine is pretty slow. I don’t think there is a good way to speed it up because the delay is primarily due to reloading the spring mechanism. However, there are a lot of drills that can be paced appropriately to the feed rate.

What is pictured in this video is “infinite” mode, where balls are replaced in the machine with each iteration. I was using my basket in this video, but sometimes just position a stack of balls on the court adjacent to the machine. Picking up the ball and putting it into the machine works the core muscles more effectively than you might imagine. It can kind of sneak up on you.

Another good drill I do with this machine is to load up the feeder where it plays into one corner and sprint (well… my version of a sprint) across the baseline to work on hitting on the run and recovery footwork patterns.

Sadly, this machine does not appear to be sold on amazon, but I would note that the major sports retailers generally have it in stock. My local Academy has it priced at $79.99 which I think is a very competitive price point.