Private Lessons vs. Tennis Drills: Which Is Right for You?
If you're looking to improve your tennis game, you've probably wondered: Should I take a private lesson or join a drill?
The answer depends on your goals, playing style, and what you want to get out of your time on the court. At Four Lakes Athletic Club, both private lessons and group drills can help you become a better, more confident player - but they offer very different experiences.
Private Lessons: Personalized Coaching & Faster Progress
Private lessons are all about you.
Working one-on-one with a tennis professional allows your coach to focus specifically on your technique, strategy, strengths, and areas for improvement. Whether you're learning the basics, trying to fix your serve, or preparing for competitive match play, your lesson can be tailored to exactly what your game needs.
Private lessons are especially helpful if you:
Want individualized instruction and immediate feedback
Are working to correct a specific technique
Have a particular skill or goal you want to improve
Want to build a personalized development plan
Prefer learning at your own pace
Are looking to accelerate your progress
One of the biggest advantages is efficiency. Instead of dividing a coach's attention among multiple players, every repetition and correction is focused on your game.
Drills: More Reps, More Players & More Fun
Group drills take a different approach. Instead of focusing entirely on one player, drills create an energetic environment where players can practice skills repeatedly, work with different partners, and learn in a group setting.
Drills are a great option if you:
Enjoy learning with other players
Want lots of repetition and ball time
Want to work on specific skills in a dynamic environment
Enjoy the social side of tennis
Want a cost-effective way to improve
Want to build confidence before taking your skills into match play
There's also something valuable about seeing other players hit the same shots you're working on. You can learn by watching, competing, and adjusting alongside others.
So... Which One Fits You?
The good news is that you don't necessarily have to choose one.
Private lessons and drills can actually complement each other extremely well.
A private lesson can help you identify what you need to work on and give you the technical foundation. Then, drills give you the opportunity to get more repetitions and practice those skills in a more active, game-like environment.
Think of it this way:
Private lesson = personalized coaching.
Drill = practice, repetition, and application.
For many players, combining the two can be an excellent way to continue developing their game.
Find the Right Fit for Your Game
Whether you're picking up a racquet for the first time or looking to take your competitive game to the next level, the right training environment can make a big difference.
Not sure whether a private lesson or drill is the best fit for you? Talk with one of the FLAC tennis professionals. They can help you determine where to start based on your experience, goals, and playing style.
Your best tennis is built one shot at a time. Let's find the right way to help you get there.
Ready to improve your game? Explore tennis lessons and drills at Four Lakes Athletic Club and find the program that's right for you.
View the 2026-2027 Indoor Program Guide
