Common Footwork Mistakes
Even experienced players fall into bad habits when it comes to footwork. Here are a few common mistakes:
Standing Flat-Footed
Many players have the habit of waiting flat-footed for the ball to come to them, instead of moving toward it. This delay in movement can make all the difference between a well-timed shot and a rushed, poorly executed one.
Overreaching
Rather than moving their feet to get into the proper position, some players overreach with their arms. This often leads to weak, off-balance shots. If your feet aren't in the right place, you won't be able to generate the necessary power or accuracy.
Slow Recovery
After hitting a shot, it's essential to return to a neutral position quickly to be ready for the next ball. Many players don't recover in time, leaving large areas of the court exposed to their opponent.
Key Tips to Improve Footwork in Tennis
Stay on the Balls of Your Feet
Being light on your feet is critical to reacting quickly. Staying on the balls of your feet keeps you ready to move in any direction. One simple drill is to practice bouncing lightly on your toes between shots, keeping your knees slightly bent to maintain balance and agility.
Use a Split Step
A split step is a small hop you take as your opponent is about to hit the ball. It helps you prepare to move in any direction. To incorporate the split step into your game, time your hop so that you're landing just as your opponent makes contact with the ball, giving you the flexibility to move forward, backward, or laterally.
Practice Quick Directional Changes
In tennis, you'll frequently need to change direction quickly. Training your body to move efficiently in all directions is key. Agility drills such as ladder drills and cone drills are excellent for improving your lateral movement and forward/backward steps.
Improve Footwork Recovery
After hitting a shot, you should always return to a neutral position on the court to be ready for your opponent's next shot. Practice recovery patterns like the crossover step and side shuffle to improve your speed and court coverage. The faster you recover, the better prepared you'll be for the next ball.