Mini tennis is the short game you play when you can only use the service boxes (for singles) and extend the service line out into the alleys for doubles. For the serve, stand to start in the same position as you would on a full court, the right side. Drop the ball to the court first before hitting it. It should be an easy serve, not an attempt to ace off a feed. Rally the ball as you would in full court tennis. The only rule for basic mini tennis is that you may not volley the ball nor smash it down. Many of your shots will be blocked or shortened. You may hit any type of spin you wish. These mini court games sound gentle but you can get an amazing workout rallying cross court and down the line shots. If you play first to five points, then shift serve every two points, if you get to four points all, then the server serves the final point and the receiver chooses which side to receive that serve.
The advantage of practicing mini tennis is that it teaches you touch close to the net. You need control to win this game. It isn't easy. There are other rules options for this game but try this basic one first. Many players practice mini tennis for a couple of minutes before starting the large court traditional warm-up. It gets your eyes, hands and feet working with control before going to full court. It makes sense. In Basketball you start with lay-ups. In baseball you throw close. In soccer you kick close.
Let me know if you have any questions about this great game.
