Spectrums

As with everything in life, it's probably good to know where you are.


For sports, what are the extremes and what is your target range?

Let's take tennis, which I know best:

highest <=> lowest people play?

slowest <=> fastest?

flat <=> max top-, back-spin?

deepest <=> shortest balls?

easiest <=> most difficult shots, in what situation?

Serve percentages?

Number of shots per rally?

Errors / total shots?

Heaviest <=> lightest racquet?

Softest <=> tightest string?

...


For teaching, especially beginners, I like them to try and experience the full spectrum of grips. From super open to super closed. In the extreme(s), that's probably hitting fore- and backhands without changing. (That's if you're still hitting backhands :P)

As a result, experience how that generally feels like, and what happens up the chain, the stance, and to the ball. 

For most, to help find a middle ground that works for them.

Some may 1) stick with extreme grips. And/or 2) use them strategically later. And/or 3) consciously switch to accelerate learning and practice flexibility. 


Personally I've done all 3. In my pursuit of becoming a (more) complete athlete, I've especially went after #3 - i.e. trying to cover the whole spectrum with the weak side to accelerate learning towards a "full spectrum athlete". 

I'm still far away from that. But in any case, it's good to know - roughly - where you are :)