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Tennis Lessons / 2H Backhand / Step 3

Step Forward

How To :

1. Step forward with your inside foot.

Yes, I know. Complicated step.

Figure 1: Frank stepping forward

Now that his upper body preparation is complete, Frank steps into the court with his inside foot. While the step is relatively simple, it’s important because it allows you to transfer your weight into the court – and into the ball – when you swing. Notice that when Frank steps into the court, he’s establishing a wide base. His feet are wider than shoulder-width apart, but not so wide that it is uncomfortable. That’s key because it keeps him on balance and allows him to effectively transfer his weight into the court. If you base is too narrow, you lose the ability to do either.

Common Errors:

Too narrow a base.

This was mentioned above, but it is worth repeating. Not standing wide enough apart prevents you from getting low, getting balanced and getting your weight into your shot.

Stepping too close, or too far away, from the tennis ball.

Learning to step correctly takes practice. If you step too close to the ball you will be jammed at contact. If you step too far away you will be reaching for the ball. Another mistake is to mis-time the step. You want to time the step so that it allows you to smoothly transition from the preparation phase to the hitting phase of the backhand.

Read 2H Backhand Step 4 »

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