Coaches often say tennis is played with the feet. Most errors that look like technical problems with the forehand or backhand are really positioning problems: the player arrived late, too close, or off balance. Better footwork makes every stroke easier.
Ready position and split step
Between shots, stand with feet slightly wider than your shoulders, knees bent, weight on the balls of your feet. As your opponent hits, make a small hop, the split step, and land balanced and ready to push off in any direction. Timing the split step with your opponent’s contact is the single most important footwork habit.
The first step
Speed in tennis is mostly about the first step. Turn your hips toward the ball as you push off, rather than shuffling sideways. For wide balls, a crossover step covers ground faster; for short distances, side shuffles keep you balanced.
Adjustment steps
As you approach the ball, take small steps to fine-tune your position so you can hit at the right distance and height. Big strides until the last moment leave you too close or too far. Many coaches call these “small steps before the hit”.
Recovery
After hitting, recover toward the middle of your opponent’s possible replies, not automatically to the center mark. Use side shuffles or crossover steps and split-step again as they hit. Players who admire their shot instead of recovering lose many points to the open court.
Footwork drills
- Ladder drills: quick feet in and out of the rungs, side steps and crossovers.
- Spider drill: from the center mark, sprint to five cones placed around the baseline and service line, returning to the center each time.
- Shadow tennis: move and swing without a ball, focusing on split step, first step and recovery.
- Two-ball feeds: a partner feeds one ball wide to the forehand, then one to the backhand; recover between them.
Speed off the court
Short sprints, jumping exercises and leg strength work improve foot speed. Our guide to building tennis fitness includes a weekly plan. Tennis shoes matter as well, for grip and ankle support; see choosing tennis shoes for your foot type.
