Many novice tennis players assume that mastering their swing is the most important part of becoming a great player. But it’s not. Don’t get us wrong, a good tennis player needs to have a forceful and controlled swing. But look closely, it all begins with the footwork.
Below we explore how mastering the art of good footwork can help your child become a better tennis player.
What Are the Advantages of Mastering Footwork in Tennis?
Mastering footwork in tennis gives a player an edge over their competition and can prevent injuries during play. The placement of the feet before, during, and after engaging with the ball can improve a player’s game and ensure they remain in control of their movement.
Aside from improving your ability to conserve strength during a game, increasing reaction time, and taking your speed to the next level, some of the specific benefits of mastering footwork in tennis include:
Provides Greater Choice in Shot Selection
Did you know that maximizing your footwear can help improve your shots? Why? Because the swing and hit depending on the position of your body, which in turn requires stability from the feet. Being able to move away from and towards the ball in motion with ease allows for better shot options.
Keeps the Unforced Errors Down
This controlled positioning of the feet helps to minimize unforced errors all players face. Having the ability to move in time for shots reduces the risk of missed shots and others mistakes during a game.
Increases Your Ability to Strike with More Power
As mentioned above, a good swing is a major part of tennis. A tennis player requires force and stability to hit the hall with the proper force and power. Positioning your feet in a stance that allows for quick movement can increase the striking ability.
Improves Your Agility, Balance & Coordination
As agility, balance, and coordination are three of the foundational techniques taught to beginners, mastering footwork is key. These aspects of the game require speed and reaction, but mostly practice.
Drills to Improve Footwork in Tennis
If you are looking to improve your footwork, there are some basic footwork drills that can help. Footwork drills should involve using a large stance, taking big steps, and developing a rhythm with the movement of the ball. With practice, anything is possible, including mastering your footwork! Taking the time and effort to perform various drills can be done on and off the court. Here are some ideas:
Skipping Drills
Skipping is one of the best cardio exercises to improve footwear, increase reaction time, and maintain good reflexes. Using a jump rope on a hard surface should be done in 30-second intervals.
Lateral Drills
To improve footwear in all directions, lateral drills enhance a player’s ability to control movement to the side. Place a stretch band around both shins and take four steps to one side, swing overhead, and return to the original position. Repeat on the other side and continue five times per direction.
High Knees
High knees are the next level of the lateral drill. Bring the knees up to an angle of 90 degrees as you move across the court.
Split Step Drills
The split step is a common drill taught to tennis beginners. In addition to helping maintain balance and movement, this footwork enhances a player’s capability to anticipate their opponent’s move. Standing with the legs shoulder-length apart, hop to the side at the time when your opponent would be hitting the ball. Be sure to land with your knees slightly bent and run to the appropriate side of the court to engage the ball.
Ladder Drills
Enhance your speed, agility, and coordination with ladder drills. Set up a “ladder” course with lines or an agility ladder. Begin with both feet into the first “box” and alternate feet as you jump into each box as you move through the course.
The Shuffle
For those with no equipment, or to enhance your stamina and stepping skills, shuffle the feet one step to the right and then shuffle one step to the left. Continue this shuffle for 30 seconds before resting and then repeat.
In and Out
Challenge yourself once you have mastered the ladder drills by transforming them into the in-and-out drill. Begin on the left side of the ladder course with the right foot in the first box. Place the left foot in, right foot out, left foot out, and then repeat. Switch sides and begin the drill with the left foot.
Bayview Village Tennis Camp Focuses on Safe Techniques
For the past 30 years, Bayview Village Tennis Camp has been a leading instructional site for tennis players of all ages and abilities. We offer several beginner and intermediate-level sessions to enhance the skills, knowledge, and passion for the sport.
Our Tennis Canada-certified instructors are led by National Senior Champion and former National Coach by Tennis Canada, Peter Nielsen. Peter and his team offer several membership packages, which may include participation in classes, social round-robins, house leagues, and tournaments. Contact us today for more information and to book your child’s spot before our tennis sessions sell out!