Pivot and Reach

Aim: To improve footwork and movement.

How: Starting from the ready position always use the dominant foot (racket hand foot) as the reaching or leading one and the non-dominant foot to pivot on.

Now players need to pivot on the non-dominant foot so that it is facing towards the front corner that they are travelling to. Then move towards that corner, the last step being with the dominant foot. On this last step also reach out with the racket as if playing a shot at the net.

Make sure to switch sides and remember to change the grip accordingly. Once at the net use the three step sequence to return to the mid court area.

Repeat this 5 times to each corner.

Players can also use gravity to aid the movement if more speed is needed. When pivoting on the non-dominant foot, make sure to also move it back slightly, this should cause players to almost fall in the direction they want to travel. When moving back to the mid court instead of just pushing off the dominant foot bring the other foot forward. Then lean back and push off both feet, this should assist gravity and get players back quicker.

Progressions: