Fixing weaknesses · 3 min read
Getting to the ball late
It’s almost always a split-step and first-step problem, not top speed.
Key points
- Split-step timed with your opponent’s shot: land as they hit.
- First step with the foot nearest the direction (pivot) or a crossover step if the ball is far.
- Short adjustment steps before hitting; recover to the middle after every shot.
- Read the cues: your opponent’s position, preparation and spin give away the direction.
To practice on court
Spider shadow
Run to the 5 court positions with a shadow stroke; time it.
Goal: Movement efficiency.
Fitness that helps
- Reactive split-step with cuesSplit-step and explosive first step in the direction shown on screen.
- Crossover step and recoveryFrom a split-step: pivot, crossover start step and back to center with side steps.
- Fast feetVery fast steps in place in an athletic stance.
- On-court shadow movementMovement patterns with shadow strokes: forward, back and to the sides.
- Skater jumpsLateral jump from one leg to the other, braking and stabilizing each landing.
Complete Conditioning for Tennis, ch. 6.