Conversation 26/43 A constraint does not improve a practice simply because it makes the task more difficult. Consider a common rule used to encourage depth: “If the ball lands in the service box, you lose the point.” The constraint will change behaviour—but that does not mean it will improve behaviour. Players may become so concerned about avoiding the service box that they: Hit with unnecessary height. Reduce their attacking intent. Ignore opportunities to use angles. Avoid drop shots and shorter trajectories. Prioritise obeying the rule over solving the game. Tennis is highly variable. Sometimes depth is functional. Sometimes the best solution is short, angled or placed into open space. By completely removing the service boxes, the coach may also remove the player’s need to perceive when those shorter options are available. A better constraint could be to place a target area behind the opponent’s baseline: Can you force your opponent backwards into that space? This encour...